Biology Chapter 15 Definitions

Environmental Science

The branch of science concerned with the physical, chemical, and biological conditions of the environment and their effect on life

Ecological pyramid

A graphical representation of the trophic relationships between organisms

Climate

The weather conditions prevailing in an area over a long period of time (many years)

Wind

The movement of air in a specific direction

Conservation biology

The study of how to protect nature and fix any damage that has been done

Biodiversity

The wide range of all forms of life on earth or in a specific region

Natural resources

Materials in nature that are needed for a wide variety of life to be sustained

Direct value

There is a specific product (or products) directly obtained as a result of biodiversity

Indirect value

Something other than a specific product (or products) that is obtained as a result of biodiversity, including aesthetic, cultural, educational, ethical, or spiritual value

Pollution

The presence or introduction of a substance that is harmful to the environment

Sustainability

An approach where the level of natural resources is maintained so the ecosystem remains in balance across future generations

Renewable resource

A natural resource that can be used in a way that assures it will not be exhausted

Climate Change

A change in global or regional weather patterns over a long period of time