Sustainable Alternatives, New Zealand Frogs, and Energy Management Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering academic terms and definitions from three reading passages on sustainability (fungi), biology (Maud Island frogs), and management (energy vs. time).

Sustainable

Describes materials or methods that are eco-friendly, renewable, and green, such as fungi-based objects used to replace plastic.

Mycelium

The vegetative part of fungi, consisting of multiple long, thread-like fibers, used to create sustainable items like chairs and lampshades.

Decomposition

The process of decay, breakdown, or biodegradation of organic matter which fungi facilitate in the natural world.

Peculiar

Strange, unusual, or odd organisms like fungi that are neither plants nor animals.

Alternatives

Substitutes or replacements for less environmentally friendly materials.

Composition

The structure, makeup, or constitution of an organism or material.

Fiber

Threads, strands, or filaments, such as those that make up the structure of mycelium.

Mold

A cast or container that retains humidity and forces mycelium to take on a specific shape during manufacturing.

Humidity

The level of moisture, dampness, or wetness in the environment, which is crucial during the production of fungi-based materials.

Coexist

To live together or harmonize, specifically referring to the study of whether Maud Island frogs can live alongside mice.

Primitive

Ancient, prehistoric, or rudimentary; New Zealand native frogs are described as such, dating back $140-160 \times 10^6$ years.

Virtually

Almost, practically, or nearly.

Dexterity

Agility, skillfulness, or nimbleness, such as the ability of baby mice to squeeze through a $6\,mm$ gap.

Catastrophe

A disaster, calamity, or tragedy, such as a fire or predator invasion that could wipe out a frog population.

Vulnerable

Susceptible, defenseless, or exposed to harm.

Invasive

Intrusive or encroaching species or methods that may cause harm to a native ecosystem.

Sustain

To maintain, support, or nourish, such as providing enough insects to keep captive frogs alive.

Finite

Limited, bounded, or restricted, particularly in reference to time as a resource.

Systematically

Organized methodically or in a structured way, used to describe the expansion of personal energy.

Engagement

The level of involvement, dedication, or commitment an employee brings to their work.

Diminish

To reduce, decrease, or lessen energy levels through factors like poor nutrition or lack of sleep.

Ultradian rhythms

$90-120\,minute$ cycles where individuals move from high-energy states into a physiological trough and crave recovery.

Multifaceted

Varied, diverse, or many-sided, describing the value of taking regular breaks during work.

Relentless

Unceasing, persistent, or non-stop demands that can drain emotional energy.

Switching time

The phenomenon where a temporary shift in attention, such as answering email, increases the time to finish a primary task by as much as $25\%$.

Divulge

To reveal, disclose, or unintentionally uncover personal values by describing off-putting qualities in others.

Hinders

To obstruct, impede, or hamper success, often caused by a crisis mentality in organizations.

Optimal

The ideal, best, or finest condition, such as identifying the most suitable candidates for energy programs.

Explicit

Clear, plain, or straightforward Communication or contracts between organizations and individuals.