Geog-paper 2 section b

Ecosystem

A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

Biodiversity

The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity.

Tropical Rainforest

A dense forest found in tropical regions, characterized by high rainfall, warm temperatures, and a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Photosynthesis

The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll.

Deforestation

The large-scale removal of trees from forested areas, often leading to habitat loss and increased carbon emissions.

Hot Desert

A dry, barren area of land with little precipitation, extreme temperatures, and sparse vegetation.

Adaptation

The process by which a species becomes better suited to its environment through evolutionary changes.

Nutrient Cycle

The movement and exchange of organic and inorganic matter back into the production of living matter within an ecosystem.

Climate

The long-term average of weather patterns in a particular area, including temperature, humidity, and precipitation.

Sustainable Management

Practices that meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, particularly in resource use.

Canopy

The upper layer of a rainforest formed by the tops of tall trees, which provides habitat for many species.

Understorey

The layer of vegetation beneath the canopy in a rainforest, consisting of smaller trees, shrubs, and young plants.

Desertification

The process by which fertile land becomes desert as a result of drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture.

Endemic Species

Species that are native to and found only within a specific geographic area.

Interdependence

The reliance of different organisms and species on each other for survival within an ecosystem.

Soil Erosion

The removal of the top layer of soil, which can lead to reduced fertility and increased desertification.

Carbon Sink

A natural environment that absorbs more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it releases, such as forests.

Slash and Burn Agriculture

A farming method that involves cutting and burning plants to create fields for agriculture, often leading to deforestation.

Microclimate

A small area with a different climate than the surrounding area, often influenced by local geography.

Trophic Levels

The hierarchical levels in an ecosystem, comprising producers, primary consumers, secondary consumers, and decomposers.

Ecotourism

Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.