Understanding the Biosphere and Its Impacts

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the biosphere, ecosystems, human impacts, and climate change, aiding in the study of environmental science.

Biosphere

Includes all living communities on Earth.

Solar Energy

Energy received from the Sun, essential for life on Earth.

Angle of Incidence

The angle at which the Sun’s rays strike the Earth's surface, affecting climate.

Coriolis Effect

The curvature of the paths of winds due to Earth’s rotation.

Thermal Stratification

The layering of water in lakes due to temperature differences.

Oligotrophic Lake

A lake characterized by low nutrients and high oxygen levels.

Eutrophic Lake

A lake with high nutrients and often lower oxygen levels due to algal growth.

Estuaries

Ecosystems where freshwater from rivers mixes with saltwater from the ocean.

Deforestation

The large-scale clearing of forests, impacting biodiversity and ecosystems.

Zoonotic Disease

Diseases that are transmissible from animals to humans.

Biomagnification

The process by which the concentration of toxins increases in animals higher up the food chain.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared radiation.

Global Circulation Patterns

Patterns of wind movement around the globe affecting climate and weather.

Marine Habitats

Habitat areas in oceans characterized by distinct ecosystems.

Microclimates

Localized climate conditions that differ from the surrounding area.

Monsoons

Seasonally shifting winds that affect regional climates and rainfall patterns.

Biodiversity

The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

A greenhouse gas that plays a significant role in climate change.

Phytoplankton

Microscopic marine algae that are primary producers in oceanic ecosystems.

Climate Change

Long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather patterns in a place.