Systems in the Natural World

This flashcard set covers key concepts on ecosystems, biomes, energy flows, and biodiversity, aiding in the review of the systems in the natural world.

What does the concept of 'systems in the natural world' refer to?

It refers to Earth being a system of systems, where it is divided into biomes and ecosystems that interact.

How much solar energy does the Earth receive on average?

The Earth receives an average of 1400 watts per square meter from the sun.

What is the greenhouse effect?

The greenhouse effect is the trapping of long wave radiation in the atmosphere, necessary for maintaining suitable temperatures for living systems.

What percentage of solar energy is converted by plants during photosynthesis?

Plants convert only 0.06% of solar energy into usable chemical energy.

What is ecological efficiency's average percentage in energy transfer between trophic levels?

The average ecological efficiency is about 10%.

What are the three main types of ecosystems?

Marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems.

What is succession in an ecosystem?

Succession is the change of an ecosystem over time, often seen in environments low in species diversity.

What are r-strategists and K-strategists in ecological terms?

R-strategists are species that produce many offspring with little parental care, while K-strategists have fewer offspring with high parental care.

What is biodiversity?

Biodiversity is the variability in a community, ecosystem, or biome, including habitat, species, and genetic diversity.

What is the fundamental niche?

The fundamental niche is the full range of conditions and resources in which a species could survive and reproduce.

What is bioaccumulation?

Bioaccumulation is the build-up of persistent or non-biodegradable pollutants in an organism.

What is photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is the process by which primary producers convert light energy into chemical energy.

What are the differences between a habitat and a niche?

A habitat is the environment where a species lives, while a niche describes the specific role or function of a species within its habitat.

How do limiting factors affect population growth?

Limiting factors hinder population growth as it approaches the carrying capacity of the environment.