Ecology Review Flashcard

Front

What is acid rain?

Back

Acid rain is precipitation that contains high levels of sulfuric and nitric acids, primarily formed when sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides mix with water in the atmosphere.

Front

What are the main causes of acid rain?

Back

The main causes of acid rain are emissions from burning fossil fuels, industrial processes, and vehicle exhaust that release sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere.

Front

What is a pioneer species?

Back

Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize a barren environment in primary succession, such as lichens and mosses.

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

Primary succession is the ecological process that occurs in an area where no soil exists, leading to the establishment of a biological community.

Front

What is a limited resource in an ecosystem?

Back

A limited resource is a natural resource that is in short supply and can be depleted, leading to competition among organisms.

Front

What are the harmful effects of UV radiation?

Back

Harmful effects of UV radiation include an increase in skin cancer, immune deficiencies, and cataracts.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

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Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil and supporting plant growth.

Front

What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable resources?

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Renewable resources can be replenished naturally over time (e.g., solar energy), while non-renewable resources exist in finite amounts and cannot be replaced (e.g., fossil fuels).

Front

What is biodiversity?

Back

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the number of different species and genetic diversity.

Front

What is an invasive species?

Back

An invasive species is a non-native organism that spreads rapidly in a new environment, often causing harm to native species and ecosystems.