Surviving in a Closed Ecosystem Lessons from the Biosphere 2 Project

Biosphere 2 was an ambitious project launched in the Arizona desert to simulate a self-contained ecosystem. Despite its innovative design, the project faced significant challenges, including oxygen depletion, food shortages, and team conflicts. Although it did not achieve its original goal of proving human sustainability in a closed environment, Biosphere 2 has become a valuable research facility for climate change and a popular tourist attraction. Its legacy continues to influence environmental research and education.

What was the primary goal of the Biosphere 2 project?

• To develop new agricultural techniques

• To replicate Earth's ecosystems in a closed system

• To create a new tourist attraction

• To study the effects of pollution

Which of the following was NOT one of the ecosystems included in Biosphere 2?

• Coastal fog desert

• Mangrove wetland

• Arctic tundra

• Tropical rainforest

What was one of the major challenges faced by the biospherians?

• Lack of sunlight

• Excessive rainfall

• Noxious gas buildup

• Inadequate shelter

What was a significant human obstacle encountered during the mission?

• Cultural differences

• Insufficient training

• Entrenched team factions

• Lack of communication

What injury did Jane Poynter suffer during the mission?

• Head injury

• Finger injury

• Burn injury

• Broken leg

What was a consequence of the dropping oxygen levels in Biosphere 2?

• Enhanced cognitive function

• Lethargy and mood swings

• Improved plant growth

• Increased energy levels

What is the current use of the Biosphere 2 facility?

• A wildlife sanctuary

• A space training center

• A research lab for climate change

• A luxury resort

How many visitors does Biosphere 2 attract annually?

• 10,000

• 100,000

• 50,000

• 200,000

What is a unique feature of Biosphere 2 as a research facility?

• Its location in a rainforest

• Its focus on marine biology

• Its use of solar energy

• Its ability to control environmental variables

What is the general consensus about the success of Biosphere 2?

• It was a minor success

• It failed to achieve its mission

• It was a complete success

• It was irrelevant to scientific research