Introduction to Terrestrial Biomes

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to terrestrial biomes, climate patterns, and ecological interactions.

Biome

Types of terrestrial landscapes characterized by similar environmental factors, particularly temperature and precipitation.

Latitude

The measurement going 'around' the Earth from east to west.

Primary Producers

Organisms like plants that create energy through photosynthesis and form the foundation of food webs.

Consumers

Organisms that rely on primary producers for energy, acting as secondary producers.

Seasonal Variation

Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns that occur at different times of the year, influenced by the Earth's tilt and orbit.

Equinoxes

Periods during spring and fall when solar radiation is equal for both hemispheres, resulting in approximately equal day and night lengths.

Earth's Tilt

The axial tilt of the Earth at approximately 23.5 degrees, influencing solar radiation intensity and seasonal changes.

Photosynthesis

The process by which primary producers, such as plants and phytoplankton, convert sunlight into energy.

Spring Bloom

The surge in phytoplankton productivity in spring, forming the base of the ocean food web.

Winter Dormancy

A period when photosynthesis significantly decreases in winter, affecting the appearance of continents in satellite imagery.