Earth Science Quiz: Climate and Weather Patterns

The ability of an organism or species to survive and thrive within a specific range of environmental conditions.

Changes to an ecosystem that can be caused by natural events like fires, floods, or volcanic eruptions.

A species whose actions have a disproportionately large impact on its environment, often shaping the structure of its community.

The gradual process by which a community of organisms changes over time, with new species colonizing an area and others disappearing.

The initial stage of ecological succession, where life begins to colonize a previously lifeless area, such as a volcanic rock.

The process of ecological succession that occurs in disturbed environments, such as a forest after a wildfire. The starting point already has soil and some existing organisms.

A species whose presence or absence indicates the health of an ecosystem.

Organisms adapting to their environment through gradual changes in their genes over time.

A system of irrigation that uses spray nozzles to distribute water across a field, resulting in less water loss compared to flood and furrow irrigation. However, spray systems are more expensive to install and operate.

A highly efficient irrigation method where perforated hoses release water directly to plant roots, minimizing water loss through evaporation or runoff. However, this system is expensive and not as common.

The buildup of salts in the soil due to evaporation of water, leading to soil toxicity for plants.

Underground layers of rock and soil that store groundwater, like reservoirs beneath the surface.

The process of using chemical substances like pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides to control pests in agriculture. However, overuse can lead to resistance in pests, reducing effectiveness.

Modifying the genetic makeup of crops to increase their resistance to pests and diseases. Although beneficial, it can also lead to a loss of genetic diversity in the particular crop.

Intensive animal farming systems that house a large number of animals in confined spaces for quick production. CAFOs often use feed that is not ideal for animals, resulting in waste and environmental concerns.

A method of raising livestock by allowing them to roam freely and graze on pastures, typically resulting in higher animal welfare and less environmental impact compared to CAFOs.

The uneven heating of Earth's surface by the sun, causing air to rise at the equator and sink at the poles, leading to global wind patterns.

A region of land that receives less rainfall due to a mountain range blocking precipitation.

The amount of solar radiation received at a location on Earth's surface, influenced by factors like the angle of the sun's rays, season, and latitude.

The tilt of Earth's axis of rotation causes different parts of the planet to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year, resulting in seasons.

Geographic features like mountains and ocean currents influence temperature and precipitation, ultimately impacting weather and climate.

A recurring climate pattern in the Pacific Ocean associated with changes in sea surface temperature. El Niño causes warmer waters in the eastern Pacific, while La Niña causes cooler waters.

The area of land drained by a specific river system, characterized by its size, length, slope, soil type, vegetation, and boundaries.

Human activities, like resource extraction and land use, can alter natural systems and change the balance of ecosystems.

The physical removal of large objects, often through screens and grates, followed by the settling of solid waste in the bottom of a tank.

A biological process where bacteria break down organic matter into carbon dioxide and inorganic sludge. Aeration speeds up this process.

Using ecological or chemical methods to remove lingering pollutants after primary and secondary treatment.

The dose of a chemical that is lethal to 50% of the population of a particular species.

This curve shows the relationship between the dose of a toxin or drug and its effect on an organism or population.

A type of cancer often caused by exposure to asbestos.

Elevated levels of tropospheric ozone can lead to respiratory problems and reduced lung function.

Untreated sewage in streams and rivers can lead to dysentery, a serious illness.

Hydrogen fuel cells produce electricity without releasing carbon dioxide when using hydrogen from water. However, generating the hydrogen needed for the fuel cell requires energy.

Wind turbines use the motion of air to spin blades, converting that mechanical energy into electricity.

Wind energy is a sustainable and clean source of energy. However, there is the risk of harming birds and bats that fly into the turbine blades.

Method for conserving energy that involves adjusting the thermostat to reduce heating and cooling needs. This helps save energy and money.

Methods for conserving energy on a larger scale include improving fuel efficiency for vehicles, using electric vehicles, and promoting public transportation.

Coal combustion releases pollutants like carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, toxic metals, and particulate matter into the atmosphere.

The combustion of fossil fuels releases nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere, contributing to ozone production, smog formation, and acid rain.

Sulfur dioxide released from the burning of fossil fuels, especially diesel, can significantly impact air quality.

A type of smog that forms from the reaction of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds with sunlight.

Gases released directly into the atmosphere from a source, such as a car exhaust or a factory.

Gases that form in the atmosphere from reactions between primary pollutants and other substances, such as sunlight.

A condition where a layer of warm air traps cooler air below, preventing pollutants from dispersing.

Naturally occurring gases like carbon dioxide from respiration, decomposition, and volcanic eruptions.

A type of indoor air pollutant that suffocates by reducing oxygen levels in the blood.

Substances that can be inhaled and cause harm, including asbestos, dust, and smoke.

Materials that can be inhaled and cause harm, including mold, radon, and dust.