NC Biology EOC Review: Ecosystems

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What is an ecosystem?

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

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What is habitat destruction?

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Habitat destruction is the process in which natural habitat becomes incapable of supporting its native species, leading to a loss of biodiversity.

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What are CFCs and their impact on the environment?

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Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are chemical compounds used in refrigeration and aerosol propellants that deplete the ozone layer, leading to increased UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface.

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What is the relationship between humans and lice?

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The relationship between humans and lice is an example of parasitism, where lice benefit at the expense of humans.

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What is factory runoff?

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Factory runoff refers to the waste materials and chemicals that are discharged into water bodies from industrial facilities, which can harm aquatic ecosystems.

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What is biodiversity?

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

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What is the role of predators in an ecosystem?

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Predators help maintain the balance of ecosystems by controlling the population of prey species, which can prevent overgrazing and promote plant diversity.

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What is the significance of keystone species?

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Keystone species are organisms that have a disproportionately large effect on their environment relative to their abundance, playing a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecosystem.

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What is the impact of deforestation on ecosystems?

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Deforestation leads to habitat loss, decreased biodiversity, and disruption of water cycles, which can result in climate change and soil erosion.

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What is the concept of carrying capacity?

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Carrying capacity is the maximum number of individuals of a particular species that an environment can sustainably support without degrading the habitat.