Environmental Science Winter Benchmark 2024

Front

What does symbiosis mean?

Back

Living together, close relationship between 2 species.

Front

What nutrient is released as rocks are broken down due to weathering?

Back

Phosphorous.

Front

When should approved eye protection devices be worn in the laboratory?

Back

Any time chemicals, heat, or glassware are used.

Front

How does secondary succession differ from primary succession?

Back

It begins in areas where soil is already present.

Front

What type of symbiotic relationship do a bird and a hippo share when the bird eats ticks off the hippo's back?

Back

Mutualism.

Front

Define primary succession.

Back

The process of ecological change that occurs in an area where no soil exists, starting with pioneer species.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil.

Front

Explain the concept of carrying capacity in an ecosystem.

Back

The maximum population size of a species that an environment can sustain indefinitely.

Front

What is the difference between biotic and abiotic factors?

Back

Biotic factors are living components of an ecosystem, while abiotic factors are non-living components.

Front

What is an example of a keystone species?

Back

Sea otters are a keystone species because they help maintain the balance of kelp forest ecosystems.