environmental science

What are the three types of variables in an experiment?

Independent Variable, Dependent Variable, Controlled Variables

What is the purpose of a hypothesis?

A testable prediction about the outcome of an experiment.

What does an ecological footprint measure?

It measures how much land and resources a person or population uses compared to Earth's capacity.

Define anthropocentrism in environmental ethics.

The belief that humans are the most important and that the environment only matters if it benefits us.

What are the four types of ecosystem services?

Provisioning, Regulating, Supporting, Cultural.

List the steps of the hydrologic cycle.

Evaporation, Condensation, Precipitation, Runoff, Groundwater.

What is photosynthesis?

The process where water, carbon dioxide, and sunlight are used to produce glucose and oxygen.

What is the main difference between convergent and divergent evolution?

Convergent evolution leads to similar traits in different species due to environmental pressures, whereas divergent evolution occurs when one species splits into two over time.

What are keystone species?

Species that play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of an ecosystem.

What are the three types of symbiotic relationships?

Mutualism, Parasitism, Commensalism.

What is the main difference between primary and secondary succession?

Primary succession starts from bare rock while secondary succession occurs after a disturbance.

What are the advantages of dams?

Hydroelectric power, water storage, flood control.

What shape represents a fast-growing population in age structure diagrams?

Pyramid shape.

What is carrying capacity?

The maximum population an environment can support.

What happens in Stage 2 of the Demographic Transition Model?

Death rates drop, leading to population growth.