Applied Science Unit 3: Plants

How can humans have a negative effect on plant growth?

Trampling

How can humans affect the distribution of plants?

Sowing crops causes only one plant type; trampling moves seeds on shoes.

What pH do plants grow best at?

Between 4.5 and 7.5.

What does acidic soil mean?

Deficiency in minerals such as iron and magnesium

Why is soil aeration necessary?

Allows oxygen in and removes carbon dioxide.

What forms when there is little aeration?

Toxins such as hydrogen sulfide gas.

Why is temperature important in plants?

Needed for optimum growth and seed germination.

What three things are important for plant growth?

Light, water, and minerals.

Why do plants need light?

For photosynthesis; affects growth

What happens if there is not enough soil moisture?

Photosynthesis decreases; plants can't take up nutrients.

How do plants take up mineral ions?

Through their roots.

What does random sampling mean?

Each potential sample has the same chance of being chosen at random

When is random sampling used?

It’s used to gain unbiased results

What abiotic factors affect plant population?

Soil type, moisture, pH, temperature.

What is a quadrat?

A small frame used to count organisms in an area.

What is a belt transect?

Quadrats at intervals to measure abundance.