Science Exam Preparation - Concepts on Water Cycle, Soil and Environmental Changes

Flashcards covering essential concepts related to the water cycle, soil types, environmental changes, and their impact on ecosystems, crafted to aid in exam preparation.

Water Cycle

The continuous movement of water among different water reservoirs through evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Evaporation

The process in which liquid water turns into water vapor due to heat from the sun.

Condensation

The process by which water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Precipitation

Any form of water, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, that falls from clouds to the earth.

Decomposers

Organisms like fungi and bacteria that break down dead plant and animal matter, returning nutrients to the soil.

Soil

The loose layer of material on the Earth's surface composed of organic and inorganic matter.

Abiotic Factors

Nonliving components of an ecosystem, such as air, water, soil, sunlight, and temperature.

Biotic Factors

Living components of an ecosystem, including plants, animals, and microorganisms.

Desertification

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

Fertile Soil

Soil that is rich in nutrients and able to support plant growth.

Humus

Decomposed organic material in soil that provides nutrients for plants.

Overgrazing

The depletion of vegetation caused by excessive grazing of livestock.

Climate Change

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

Pollution

The introduction of harmful substances or products into the environment.

Habitat Destruction

The process in which natural habitat is rendered unable to support the species present.

Pore Space

The spaces between soil particles that are filled with air or water.

Natural Resources

Materials or substances that occur in nature and can be used for economic gain.

Organic Matter

The remnants of once-living organisms, including plants and animals, present in the soil.

Silt Soil

A type of soil that has medium-sized particles and retains water better than sand but not as well as clay.

Clay Soil

A type of soil that has very fine particles and retains a lot of water.

Sand Soil

A type of soil with large particles, drains quickly, and retains very little water.

Salt Lake

A lake that has a high concentration of salt, often resulting in unique ecosystems.

Animal Migration

Seasonal movement of animals from one habitat to another for breeding or feeding.