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Questions and Answers
Before the Industrial Revolution, atmospheric CO2 was 380 ppm or less.
False
68% of Earth's land mass is located in the Southern Hemisphere.
False
The average temperature of Earth would be -18°C without the atmosphere.
True
Altitude affects climate, with air cooling by 0.65°C per 100m increase in height.
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Net Primary Productivity (NPP) is primarily influenced by population density.
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Energy loss at each trophic level in an ecosystem is approximately 50%.
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Biotic factors include non-living components like soil and sunlight.
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The equation for photosynthesis includes 6CO2, 6H2O, light energy, resulting in glucose and 6O2.
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Study Notes
Climate Change
- Consensus among scientists that climate change is a significant and pressing issue.
- Mauna Loa Observatory measures atmospheric CO2 levels; pre-industrial levels were 280 ppm or less.
- 68% of Earth's land mass lies in the Northern Hemisphere, which also houses 90% of the global human population.
- Seasonal variations in CO2 levels are observable.
- Earth's average temperature would be -18°C without the atmosphere, currently around -15°C.
- Global annual CO2 emissions vary by sector and country, with specific data for Australia.
- Potential sea level rise is projected at 3°C global temperature increase.
- Climate Change Performance Index evaluates countries' emissions and climate protection efforts.
Biomes Overview
- Six principal biomes include Freshwater, Marine, Desert, Forest, Grassland, and Tundra.
- Distinction between biotic factors (living organisms) like flora, fauna, fungi, and bacteria, and abiotic factors (non-living elements) such as fire, water, temperature, sunlight, and air.
Climate Influencing Factors
- Climate represents long-term weather patterns; weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions.
- Latitude influences sunlight and heat; regions closer to the equator receive more.
- Distance from oceans affects moisture levels; areas inland tend to be drier with extreme temperature swings.
- Temperature decreases with altitude at a rate of approximately 0.65°C for every 100 meters gained.
- Topography, such as mountains, creates rain shadow effects, altering rainfall distribution.
- Prevailing winds significantly impact local weather conditions.
Photosynthesis
- The photosynthesis equation is 6CO2 + 6H2O + Light energy → C6H12O6 (Glucose) + 6O2.
- Trees utilize oxygen during cellular respiration at night, balancing the oxygen output during the day.
Net Primary Productivity (NPP)
- NPP measures plant growth and ecosystem productivity; influenced primarily by temperature and moisture levels.
Energy Flows in an Ecosystem
- The sun is the primary energy source for ecosystems.
- 90% of energy is lost at each trophic level due to movement, heat, respiration, growth, waste, and reproduction.
- Large animals are often herbivores or secondary consumers due to energy constraints.
- Energy pyramid structure: Producers (plants) → 1st order consumers (herbivores) → 2nd order consumers (omnivores) → 3rd order consumers (carnivores) → 4th order consumers (apex predators).
- Decomposers, including fungi and bacteria, are essential for nutrient recycling within ecosystems.
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Description
This quiz covers key concepts related to climate change, including atmospheric CO2 levels and projected sea level rise. Additionally, it explores the six principal biomes, their characteristics, and the differences between biotic and abiotic factors. Test your knowledge of this crucial environmental topic!
