AP Environmental Science Unit 5

What is Unit 5 in AP Environmental Science about?

Unit 5 focuses on land and water use, examining how these resources are managed and the impacts of human activity on ecosystems.

What is deforestation?

Deforestation is the clearing or thinning of forests by humans, which leads to loss of biodiversity, disruption of ecosystems, and contributes to climate change.

What are the advantages of commercial fertilizers?

Commercial fertilizers provide essential nutrients to plants, promote faster growth and higher crop yields, improve soil fertility, and can be specifically formulated to address nutrient deficiencies.

What are the disadvantages of commercial fertilizers?

Commercial fertilizers can lead to soil degradation, water pollution through runoff, and can disrupt local ecosystems and biodiversity.

What is the tragedy of the commons?

The tragedy of the commons refers to a situation in which individuals, acting in their own self-interest, deplete or spoil shared resources, leading to negative consequences for the whole group.

What are the advantages of GMOs?

GMOs can lead to higher crop yields, reduced agricultural losses, improved resistance to pests and diseases, enhanced nutritional content, and decreased reliance on chemical pesticides.

What are the disadvantages of GMOs?

Disadvantages of GMOs include potential health risks, environmental concerns such as reduced biodiversity, and the dominance of biotech companies leading to economic inequality among farmers.