Environmental Science

dead zones

Areas in water bodies where oxygen levels are too low to support most marine life, often caused by nutrient pollution.

Why are coral reefs especially vulnerable to environmental changes?

They have a narrow range of tolerance and rely on symbiosis with algae, making them very sensitive to environmental changes.

homeostasis

the process by which organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.

Why are primary producers essential in a food chain?

They make energy and are the base of the chain.

hydrocarbons

Compounds consisting hydrogen and carbon atoms, commonly found in fossil fuels like oil and natural gas.

How do hydrocarbons relate to fossil fuels?

They are released when fossil fuels are burned.

nutrient pollution

the excess runoff of nutrients, primarily nitrogen and phosphorus, into water bodies, leading to harmful algal blooms and water quality degradation

How do destructive fishing practices impact coral reefs?

They break and damage the reefs.

Why is dissolved oxygen critical for maintaining aquatic life?

Animals need it to breathe.

How does mining contribute to heavy metal pollution?

It releases toxic metals into water.

light infiltration

the penetration of sunlight through water ehich is necessary for photosyntesis by aquatic primary producers

optimum range

the specific conditions for an emviromental factor where an organism can best maintain homeostasis and function most effectctively

How does the optimum range relate to homeostasis?

It’s the best conditions for staying stable.

dissolved oxygen

the amount of oxygen available in water, essential for aquatic life. It is crucial for the survival of fish and other organisms in aquatic ecosystems.

How does reduced light infiltration affect primary producers?

They can’t photosynthesize as much.

Eutrophication

Enrichment of a water body with nutrients that stimulates excessive aquatic plant growth and often leads to oxygen depletion