8.L.3 Ecosystems

Front

What is an ecosystem?

Back

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) interacting with their physical environment (soil, water, air) in a specific area.

Front

What is a limiting factor in an ecosystem?

Back

A limiting factor is a resource or condition that limits the growth, abundance, or distribution of an organism or a population within an ecosystem.

Front

What is mutualism?

Back

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both species benefit from the interaction, such as bees pollinating flowers while obtaining nectar.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas, often occurring when water is heated.

Front

What are abiotic factors?

Back

Abiotic factors are non-living chemical and physical parts of the environment that affect living organisms and the functioning of ecosystems.

Front

What role does water play in a desert ecosystem?

Back

Water is the most significant limiting factor in a desert ecosystem, affecting the types of plants and animals that can survive there.

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water within the Earth and atmosphere, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What is the difference between biotic and abiotic factors?

Back

Biotic factors are living components of an ecosystem (like plants and animals), while abiotic factors are non-living components (like sunlight, temperature, and water).

Front

What is the significance of precipitation in an ecosystem?

Back

Precipitation is crucial for providing water to plants and animals, influencing the types of species that can thrive in an ecosystem.

Front

What is competition in an ecosystem?

Back

Competition occurs when two or more organisms vie for the same resources (like food, space, or light) in an ecosystem.