AICE Unit 2 Review

Front

What is the Coriolis Effect?

Back

The Coriolis Effect is the apparent deflection of moving objects (like air and water) caused by the rotation of the Earth, resulting in ocean currents rotating counter-clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.

Front

What is upwelling?

Back

Upwelling is the process where deep, cold, nutrient-rich water rises to the surface, often supporting rich marine ecosystems.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of plate tectonics?

Back

Paleomagnetic stripes on the seafloor provide evidence of the movement of tectonic plates and the history of Earth's magnetic field.

Front

What are producers in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers, also known as autotrophs, are organisms that can produce their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis.

Front

What is a spring tide?

Back

A spring tide is a tide that has a large range, occurring when the sun, moon, and Earth are aligned, resulting in higher high tides and lower low tides.

Front

What is the difference between autotrophs and heterotrophs?

Back

Autotrophs produce their own food (e.g., plants), while heterotrophs rely on consuming other organisms for energy.

Front

What causes ocean currents?

Back

Ocean currents are caused by wind, the Coriolis Effect, temperature differences, and salinity variations in the water.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of convection currents in the mantle?

Back

Convection currents in the mantle drive the movement of tectonic plates, leading to geological phenomena such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Front

What is the difference between a neap tide and a spring tide?

Back

A neap tide has a smaller range and occurs when the sun and moon are at right angles to each other, while a spring tide has a larger range.