E.E Science Exam
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following terms describes the Earth's movement in relation to the Sun and its rotation on its axis?

  • Precession
  • Barycenter
  • Revolution (correct)
  • Nutation
  • The equatorial circumference of Earth is smaller than the circumference at the poles.

    False (B)

    What are Kepler's three laws of planetary motion?

    1. Planets move in elliptical orbits with the Sun at one focus. 2. A line segment joining a planet and the Sun sweeps out equal areas during equal intervals of time. 3. The square of the period of a planet is proportional to the cube of the semi-major axis of its orbit.

    The ____ of the Earth causes changes in seasons.

    <p>tilt</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following types of tides with their descriptions:

    <p>Diurnal = One high tide and one low tide each day Semidiurnal = Two high tides and two low tides each day Mixed Semidiurnal = Varies in height and frequency of tides</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which process is responsible for the energy production in the Sun?

    <p>Fusion (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    All electromagnetic radiation produced by the Sun is directly beneficial to life on Earth.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Explain how Earth's rotation and revolution affect its shape.

    <p>Earth's rotation causes it to bulge at the equator while its revolution influences the distribution of sunlight, affecting climate and weather patterns.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the expected trend in the age structure of the US population in the future?

    <p>The older generation will increase while the younger generation decreases. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does a density independent factor not rely on?

    <p>The number of organisms present. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes the 'J curve' in population growth?

    <p>Population grows rapidly while resources are plentiful. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a limiting factor in population growth?

    <p>A resource or condition that inhibits population growth. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major trend is observed regarding population growth in wealthy countries?

    <p>Population growth is significantly decreasing. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic defines a population?

    <p>A species residing in one geographic area. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following factors affects population size?

    <p>Birth rate and death rates. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What growth stage follows the initial exponential growth in a population?

    <p>Logistic growth. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one potential negative impact of using solar islands for energy production?

    <p>They take up valuable ocean space. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a personal action that can help reduce plastic pollution?

    <p>Use reusable products instead of disposable ones. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a consequence of plastic pollution?

    <p>Increasing biodiversity in marine environments. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of solar panel testing is controlled in the described experiment?

    <p>The distance of the solar panel from the light source. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a global initiative aimed at reducing plastic pollution?

    <p>Educating companies about plastic pollution. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are three types of nonrenewable energy?

    <p>Natural gas, coal, oil (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the pros of using coal power?

    <p>Abundant and cheap (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a common use of nuclear energy?

    <p>Electric vehicle charging (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How much wind power does Governor Cooper hope to produce by 2040?

    <p>8.0 GW (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is fracking primarily used for?

    <p>Extracting natural gas or oil (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a con of using wind power?

    <p>Initial high setup costs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the approximate average cost of a solar panel in North Carolina?

    <p>$2.62/Watt (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are two major issues surrounding offshore wind turbines?

    <p>High installation costs and environmental impact (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of oysters in their ecosystem?

    <p>Filter feeders (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect do excess nutrients from rivers have when they flow into coastal waters?

    <p>Formation of dead zones (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which three states along the East Coast of North America have the most salt marshes?

    <p>North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can cause the strong smell associated with pluff mud?

    <p>Bacteria living without oxygen (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does a trophic pyramid differ from a food chain?

    <p>A trophic pyramid represents apex predators at higher levels. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main characteristic of a salt marsh during high and low tides?

    <p>It is underwater at high tide and exposed at low tide. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What could be a consequence of over harvesting blue crabs from a basin?

    <p>Disruption of local food webs (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following organisms commonly lives in salinity-rich marshes?

    <p>Clams (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are euryhaline creatures like the Atlantic Stingray and Bull Shark important in salt marshes?

    <p>They can tolerate a wide range of salinity levels. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of tide is characterized by two high tides and two low tides each day?

    <p>Semi-diurnal tide (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines a keystone species?

    <p>A species that is vital for the structure and function of its ecosystem. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which organisms are classified as primary consumers in the marsh ecosystem?

    <p>Periwinkle and Grass Shrimp (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the elevation zones within a marsh, according to basic marsh structure?

    <p>Mudflats, pioneer zone, lower marsh, upper marsh. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of the Funky Junk Contest?

    <p>To construct a structure based on data and storytelling. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to barrier islands when sea levels rise?

    <p>They protect against erosion and storms. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of Smooth Cordgrass in salt marshes?

    <p>It is well adapted to varying marsh elevations and foundational to the food web. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What evidence supports the theory of continental drift?

    <p>Matching fossil evidence (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which direction is the South American plate primarily moving?

    <p>Both divergent and convergent (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which phenomenon describes the changes in the Earth's magnetic field over time?

    <p>Paleomagnetism (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant reason for the difference in age between oceanic and continental crust?

    <p>Oceanic crust is constantly renewed (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the presence of Mesosaurus in both Africa and South America suggest?

    <p>Continents were once connected (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What causes the movement of tectonic plates?

    <p>Heat under the mantle (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What identifying feature is typical of transform boundaries?

    <p>Lateral sliding of plates (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of hotspots in plate tectonics?

    <p>To generate volcanic islands (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary consequence of eutrophication in aquatic systems?

    <p>Decreased oxygen levels in water (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does traditional agriculture typically impact water quality in surrounding ecosystems?

    <p>It contributes to increased runoff of pesticides and fertilizers (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant effect of urbanization on stormwater runoff?

    <p>Increased introduction of pollutants into waterways (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following practices is considered effective in the restoration of wetlands?

    <p>The reintroduction of native plant species (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary function of a riparian buffer in water quality management?

    <p>To filter pollutants before they enter waterways (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor most significantly affects the pH of aquatic ecosystems?

    <p>Chemical runoff (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which organism is known to be most sensitive to changes in water quality?

    <p>Clams (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary source of nitrates in water systems?

    <p>Agricultural fertilizers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which management strategy is effective in reducing soil erosion?

    <p>Wetland restoration (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main impact of turbidity on aquatic life?

    <p>Reduced reproduction rates (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect do algal blooms typically have on water quality?

    <p>Increase in turbidity (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following methods is NOT typically used for stormwater runoff management?

    <p>Dredging (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary concern associated with sewage overflow in water bodies?

    <p>Introduction of pathogens (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a major consequence of high sedimentation rates in water bodies?

    <p>Reduction in water quality (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do nitrates and phosphates primarily enter waterways from anthropogenic sources?

    <p>Fertilizers and wastewater (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following techniques is a hard stabilization method to combat coastal erosion?

    <p>Seawalls (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do riparian buffers play in water quality management?

    <p>They filter runoff and prevent erosion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does deforestation impact the water cycle when urban areas are developed?

    <p>Reduces groundwater recharge (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main environmental threat posed by ocean acidification?

    <p>Dissolution of calcium carbonate (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common solution to reduce stormwater runoff in urban areas?

    <p>Implementing green infrastructure (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the ecological benefits provided by oysters in their habitat?

    <p>They filter water and stabilize shorelines (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following processes primarily drives the movement of tectonic plates in the lithosphere?

    <p>Mantle convection cells (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What primarily distinguishes sedimentary rocks from igneous and metamorphic rocks?

    <p>Sedimentary rocks are made of compacted mineral fragments. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of tectonic boundary is characterized by plates moving away from each other?

    <p>Divergent boundary (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary characteristic of active margins compared to passive margins?

    <p>Active margins have more geological activity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following factors provides evidence for Wegener's theory of plate tectonics?

    <p>Similar fossil records across continents (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does slab pull contribute to plate tectonics?

    <p>It pulls subducting plates downward. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary difference between relative dating and absolute dating in geology?

    <p>Relative dating compares ages of rock layers, absolute dating provides numerical ages. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What feature is indicative of a divergent boundary in the oceanic crust?

    <p>Mid-ocean ridge (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary difference between lahar and pyroclastic material?

    <p>Lahar consists of water-saturated volcanic debris, whereas pyroclastic material includes solid fragments ejected during eruptions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following accurately describes the relationship between volcanoes and plate boundaries?

    <p>Most volcanoes are found at plate boundaries, but some form due to hot spots. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does physical weathering differ from chemical weathering?

    <p>Physical weathering breaks rocks into smaller pieces, while chemical weathering alters the minerals within the rocks. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of earthquakes, what does the Elastic Rebound Theory explain?

    <p>The process by which energy is stored and released along fault lines. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major factor influences the formation and migration of barrier islands?

    <p>Tidal patterns and wave action along the shoreline. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the characteristics of a cinder cone volcano?

    <p>It has steep slopes and is primarily composed of volcanic ash and tephra. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of volcanic eruption is typically the most explosive?

    <p>Composite cone eruptions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which geological phenomenon is commonly associated with the Pacific Ring of Fire?

    <p>Frequent volcanic activity and earthquakes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor contributes to fewer hurricanes occurring in the Atlantic compared to the Pacific?

    <p>Increased wind shear in the Atlantic (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary source of carbon emissions identified in the context of carbon sources and sinks?

    <p>Burning fossil fuels (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the phenomenon of albedo influence climate conditions during warming events?

    <p>It causes ice to melt, exposing more land. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do CFCs have in air quality and environmental impact?

    <p>They contribute to ozone layer depletion. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What indicators suggest significant changes related to climate change?

    <p>Higher sea levels and increasing temperatures (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic of hurricanes when they reach category 3 on the Saffir-Simpson scale?

    <p>They lead to significant damage. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect is essential for hurricane formation?

    <p>Ocean water over 80 degrees Fahrenheit. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary effect of the Coriolis Effect on wind patterns?

    <p>It causes winds to turn due to Earth’s rotation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the tilt of the Earth contribute to the changing seasons?

    <p>It affects where the sunlight hits the Earth. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines an equinox?

    <p>The time when day and night are of equal length. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following global wind belts is characterized by calm winds?

    <p>Doldrums (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary characteristic of El Niño conditions?

    <p>Warmer equatorial Pacific water temperatures. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What phenomenon describes the seasonal shifting of the wind patterns due to the Earth's rotation and tilt?

    <p>Monsoon (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to air pressure as one ascends through the layers of the atmosphere?

    <p>Air pressure decreases progressively (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following types of heat transfer involves the movement of fluids?

    <p>Convection (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main characteristic of a low-pressure area?

    <p>Moist warm air rises and cools down (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these is a characteristic of stratus clouds?

    <p>Flat layers covering the sky (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of air mass is characterized by being warm and moist?

    <p>mT - maritime tropical (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary difference between cold and warm frontal boundaries?

    <p>Cold fronts move faster than warm fronts (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'relative humidity' refer to?

    <p>The actual amount of water vapor in the air compared to saturation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to temperature as one ascends through the stratosphere?

    <p>Temperature increases due to radiation absorption (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary outcome of Fleming's experiment with the mold and bacteria?

    <p>The mold eliminated the bacteria in the culture. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is most critical in determining the effectiveness of a nutrient broth in supporting mold growth?

    <p>The concentration of nutrients in the broth. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What method did Fleming use to test his hypothesis about the mold's effect on bacteria?

    <p>He compared the growth of bacteria in the presence and absence of the mold. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major medical advancement resulted from Fleming's experiment with bacteria and mold?

    <p>Antibiotics. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an important factor that must be controlled in experiments similar to Fleming's to ensure valid results?

    <p>The type of bacteria used in the culture. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the central problem that Dr.Eijkman investigated related to the disease beriberi?

    <p>The nutritional deficiency associated with polished rice. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In Dr.Eijkman's experiments, what was the manipulated (independent) variable?

    <p>The type of rice the chickens were fed. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What observation led Alexander Fleming to hypothesize that Penicillium produced a substance harmful to bacteria?

    <p>There was a clear area around the mold where bacteria were absent. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the result of Dr.Eijkman's observation regarding the diet of the chickens?

    <p>Chickens fed polished rice showed significant illness. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What essential nutrient was found to be lacking in polished rice that contributed to the health issues observed?

    <p>Thiamine (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Dr.Eijkman modify the experimental conditions after initial observations about beriberi?

    <p>He altered the type of rice consumed by the chickens. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What possible testing method could Dr.Eijkman use for his new hypothesis about polished rice?

    <p>Test the rice for thiamine levels. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Based on Fleming's findings, what could be hypothesized about the relationship between Penicillium and Staphylococcus bacteria?

    <p>Penicillium releases a toxin that kills Staphylococcus bacteria. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Earth's motion in space

    Earth moves through space in a complex combination of ways: rotation (spinning), revolution (orbiting the Sun), and precession (a slow wobble).

    Earth's role in the universe

    Earth is part of a solar system, which is part of a galaxy, which is part of the vast universe.

    Kepler's First Law of Planetary Motion

    Planets orbit the Sun in elliptical paths, not perfect circles.

    Earth's tilt and seasons

    Earth's tilted axis causes the seasons. Different parts of Earth receive more direct sunlight at different times of the year.

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    Fusion

    Fusion is the process where lighter atomic nuclei combine to form heavier nuclei, releasing huge amounts of energy.

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    Fission

    Fission is the process where heavier atomic nuclei split into lighter nuclei, releasing energy.

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    Kepler's Second Law

    A line joining a planet and the Sun sweeps out equal areas during equal intervals of time.

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    Kepler's Third Law

    The square of the orbital period of a planet is directly proportional to the cube of the semi-major axis of its orbit.

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    Population

    A group of individuals of the same species living in the same area at the same time.

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    Population Density

    The number of individuals of a species per unit area or volume.

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    Carrying Capacity

    The maximum population size that an environment can sustain over a long period.

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    Limiting Factor

    A resource or condition that limits the growth of a population.

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    Density-Dependent Factor

    A factor that affects population growth based on the number of individuals present.

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    Density-Independent Factor

    A factor that affects population growth regardless of the number of individuals present.

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    Population Pyramid

    A graph that shows the age and sex structure of a population.

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    How does Japan's population change over time?

    Japan's population is declining due to low birth rates and an aging population.

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    Solar Power Pros & Cons

    Solar panels offer clean energy but can affect ocean life and require space. They also face issues with weather dependence and cost.

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    Plastic Pollution Impacts

    Plastic pollution harms wildlife, contaminates our drinking water, and creates long-lasting environmental damage.

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    Personal Action: Reduce Plastic

    Making conscious choices to use fewer single-use plastics can significantly reduce your personal contribution to plastic pollution.

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    Local Action: Plastic Cleanup

    Participating in beach cleanups helps remove plastic waste from the environment and raises awareness about the issue.

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    Global Plastic Initiative

    A global initiative aimed at reducing plastic pollution faces challenges like lack of international cooperation and resistance from industries that profit from plastic.

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    Nonrenewable Energy

    Energy sources that are finite and cannot be replenished at a human timescale. Once used, they are gone.

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    Renewable Energy

    Energy sources that can be replenished naturally within a human timescale, such as sunlight, wind, or hydropower.

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    Fracking

    A technique used to extract natural gas or oil from shale and other tight rock formations by injecting pressurized fluids to create fractures in the rock.

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    Pros and Cons of Coal Power

    Pros: Cheap, abundant, and widely used. Cons: Contributes to air pollution, health problems, and climate change.

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    Pros and Cons of Wind Power

    Pros: Environmentally friendly, renewable, and abundant in certain locations. Cons: Can be visually intrusive, require significant initial investment.

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    Solar Power in NC

    North Carolina has a growing solar industry, with significant investment and potential for generating electricity.

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    Offshore Wind Turbines

    Wind turbines located in the ocean, offering potential for large-scale renewable energy production.

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    Future Renewables

    Alternative energy sources like geothermal, hydrogen, and fusion research, offering potential for sustainable energy solutions.

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    Salt Marsh Degradation

    Human activities like overfishing, pollution, and development along coastlines have damaged the health of salt marshes.

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    HABs and Excess Nutrients

    Excess nutrients from rivers flow into the ocean, creating conditions that favor harmful algal blooms (HABs), which can cause dead zones.

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    Early Estuary Organisms

    Young white shrimp, gag grouper, and red drum spend their early lives in estuaries, showcasing the vital role these areas play in the ecosystem.

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    Salt Marsh Distribution

    North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia have the most extensive salt marshes along the eastern coast of North America.

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    Periwinkle Snail and Cordgrass

    The periwinkle snail grazes on marsh cordgrass, demonstrating a symbiotic relationship where both species benefit from the interaction.

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    Semi-Diurnal Tide

    A semi-diurnal tide has two high tides and two low tides each day, creating a predictable rhythm.

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    Pluff Mud

    Pluff mud is rich in organic matter, smells due to decaying material, and provides habitat for organisms that can tolerate oxygen-poor conditions.

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    Trophic Pyramid vs. Food Chain

    A trophic pyramid shows the flow of energy between different levels of consumers. A food chain only shows who eats who.

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    Intertidal Salt Marsh

    An area that floods at high tide and exposes at low tide, characterized by a network of creeks affected by tidal movements.

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    Euryhaline

    Describes an organism that can tolerate a wide range of salinity levels, like a fish living in a salt marsh where the salinity fluctuates.

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    Marsh Producers

    Organisms that create organic matter through photosynthesis, like plankton and marsh grasses, forming the base of the marsh food web.

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    Fort Fisher Basin

    An important marsh area in North Carolina, where a former inlet created sand accumulation and made the area a productive marsh.

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    Fort Fisher Hermit

    A local legend who chose to live in solitude by the sea, surviving off the land and demonstrating the marsh's potential for sustaining life.

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    Marsh Elevation Zones

    Different areas within a marsh with varying elevations, like mudflats, pioneer zone, lower marsh, and upper marsh, each with distinct plant and animal life.

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    Smooth Cordgrass

    A key plant species in salt marshes, highly adaptable to varying salinity and elevations, forming the base of the marsh food web.

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    Keystone Species

    A species that plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem, like oyster, which helps filter water and provide habitat.

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    Plate Tectonics

    The theory that Earth's outer layer is made of large, moving plates that interact with each other, causing earthquakes, volcanoes, and mountain formation.

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    Continental Drift

    The idea that the continents were once joined together as a supercontinent (Pangaea) and have drifted apart over millions of years.

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    Convergent Boundary

    Where two tectonic plates collide, causing mountains, volcanoes, or subduction zones.

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    Divergent Boundary

    Where two tectonic plates move apart, creating new ocean floor or rift valleys.

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    Transform Boundary

    Where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, causing earthquakes.

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    Pangaea

    A supercontinent that existed millions of years ago, where all of Earth's continents were joined together.

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    Mesosaurus

    An extinct reptile found in both South America and Africa, providing evidence for continental drift.

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    Evidence of Plate Tectonics

    Multiple lines of evidence support the theory, including matching fossils across continents, paleomagnetism, earthquake patterns, ocean drilling, and hotspots.

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    Specific Heat

    The amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of a substance by 1 degree Celsius.

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    Cohesion & Adhesion

    Cohesion: Water molecules attracting each other. Adhesion: Water molecules attracting other substances.

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    Water's Solvent Ability

    Water's ability to dissolve many substances due to its polar molecules.

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    Surface Tension

    The force that holds water molecules together at the surface, creating a 'skin'.

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    Density Anomaly

    Water is less dense as a solid (ice) than as a liquid, allowing ice to float.

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    Riparian Buffer

    A vegetated area along a water body that filters runoff and prevents erosion.

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    Stormwater Runoff

    Rainwater that flows over surfaces, carrying pollutants into waterways.

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    High Sedimentation Rates

    Excessive amount of sediment entering a water body, often due to erosion.

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    Water Distribution

    The way water is spread across the Earth, including oceans, rivers, lakes, ice, and groundwater.

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    Eutrophication

    Excessive nutrient enrichment of water bodies, leading to excessive plant growth and oxygen depletion.

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    Coastal Dead Zones

    Areas in the ocean where oxygen levels are too low to support marine life, often caused by eutrophication.

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    Solubility Chart

    A chart showing how well different substances dissolve in water at different temperatures.

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    pH of Water Bodies

    A measure of acidity or alkalinity in water. Pure rain is slightly acidic, freshwater is neutral, brackish water is slightly alkaline, and saltwater is alkaline.

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    Factors Affecting pH

    Various factors can influence the pH of water, including algal blooms, bacteria, water turbulence, chemical pollutants, sewage overflow, and pollution.

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    Water Sensitivity

    Different organisms have varying tolerances to changes in water quality. For example, clams and snails are very sensitive, while frogs are less sensitive.

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    Nitrates in Water

    Nitrates are a form of nitrogen that plants need to grow. Animals get nitrates by eating plants. Excess nitrates can harm water quality.

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    Phosphates in Water

    Phosphates come from rocks and are absorbed by plants. Animals get phosphates by eating plants. Excess phosphates can harm water quality.

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    Hypoxia in Water

    Low oxygen levels in water, often caused by excessive nutrients and algal blooms, harming aquatic life.

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    Secchi Disk & Turbidity

    The Secchi disk measures water clarity, while turbidity refers to the cloudiness of water. High turbidity reduces light penetration, harming aquatic life.

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    Rock Cycle

    The continuous process of rocks changing from one type to another through weathering, erosion, heat, pressure, and melting.

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    Igneous Rock

    Rocks formed from the cooling and solidification of molten magma or lava.

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    Sedimentary Rock

    Rocks formed from the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of sediments.

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    Metamorphic Rock

    Rocks formed when existing rocks (igneous, sedimentary, or other metamorphic rocks) are transformed by heat and pressure.

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    Plate Boundary

    The zone where two tectonic plates meet and interact.

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    Volcanic Hotspot

    A region of volcanic activity caused by a plume of hot magma rising from deep within the Earth's mantle.

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    Magma vs. Lava

    Magma is molten rock found beneath the Earth's surface, while lava is molten rock that has erupted onto the Earth's surface.

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    Lahar

    A fast-moving, destructive mudflow resulting from the mixture of volcanic debris, water, and ash.

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    Pyroclastic Material

    Fragments of rock, ash, and gas ejected during volcanic eruptions.

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    Anatomy of an Earthquake

    An earthquake involves the release of energy along a fault, creating seismic waves that travel through the Earth.

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    Elastic Rebound Theory

    The theory explaining how earthquakes occur due to the buildup and release of stress along a fault.

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    Weathering, Erosion, and Soil

    Weathering is the breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces. Erosion moves these pieces, contributing to soil formation.

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    Relative Humidity

    The amount of moisture in the air compared to the maximum amount it can hold at that temperature, expressed as a percentage.

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    Air Mass

    A large body of air with relatively uniform temperature and humidity, originating from a specific region.

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    What are the 4 major cloud types?

    The four major cloud types are cirrus, cumulus, stratus, and cumulonimbus, each with different shapes, altitudes, and precipitation characteristics.

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    What is a cold front?

    A boundary where colder, denser air pushes into warmer air, causing rapid changes in weather like thunderstorms and strong winds.

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    What are the characteristics of a low pressure area?

    Low pressure areas are characterized by rising warm, moist air, converging winds, cloud formation, and often stormy weather.

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    What are the characteristics of a high pressure area?

    High pressure areas are characterized by sinking, cool, dry air, diverging winds, clear skies, and stable weather.

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    What is an isotherm?

    A line on a map connecting points of equal temperature.

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    What is an isobar?

    A line on a map connecting points of equal atmospheric pressure.

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    Pressure Systems & Weather

    Different pressure systems influence weather patterns. High pressure brings dry conditions, while low pressure often leads to wet and rainy conditions.

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    Wind Shear & Hurricanes

    Wind shear, the change in wind speed or direction, affects hurricane development. Less wind shear leads to stronger hurricanes because the storm can organize better.

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    Albedo & Ice Ages

    Albedo is how reflective a surface is. Ice has high albedo, reflecting sunlight. Melting ice reduces this reflection, leading to more heat absorption and possibly warming events.

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    Smog & Ozone

    Smog is a type of air pollution, and it's partly caused by ozone. CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons), harmful chemicals, deplete the ozone layer, contributing to smog formation.

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    Carbon Sources & Sinks

    Carbon sources release carbon into the atmosphere (like burning fossil fuels), while carbon sinks absorb carbon from the atmosphere (like trees).

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    What causes wind?

    Wind is caused by differences in air pressure. Areas of high pressure have more air molecules, pushing towards areas of lower pressure where there are fewer molecules.

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    How do hurricanes form?

    Hurricanes require warm ocean water (at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit), low pressure, and converging winds that force air upwards. As the air rises, it cools, condenses, and releases heat, fueling the storm.

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    What is the Coriolis Effect?

    The Coriolis Effect is the tendency of moving objects on Earth to be deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere due to Earth's rotation.

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    What causes the seasons?

    Earth's tilted axis on its orbit around the Sun causes seasons. As Earth revolves, different parts of the planet receive more direct sunlight at different times of the year.

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    Equinox vs. Solstice

    An equinox occurs when the Sun is directly over the Equator, resulting in equal day and night. A solstice occurs when the Sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky, leading to the longest or shortest day of the year.

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    El Niño vs. La Niña

    Both El Niño and La Niña are climate patterns in the Pacific Ocean. El Niño brings warmer waters and wetter conditions to South America, while La Niña brings cooler waters and drier conditions.

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    What are the major global wind belts?

    Global wind belts are large-scale patterns of consistent winds that circle the Earth. Major wind belts include the trade winds, westerlies, and polar easterlies.

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    What is ENSO?

    ENSO stands for El Niño-Southern Oscillation. It refers to the combined influence of El Niño and La Niña on global climate patterns.

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    Fleming's experiment question

    What effect does the mold have on bacteria?

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    Fleming's hypothesis

    The mold produces a substance that kills bacteria.

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    How was the hypothesis tested?

    Fleming grew the mold in a broth, removed it, then added the broth to a bacteria culture. He observed the results.

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    Results of Fleming's experiment

    The bacteria in the broth that was exposed to the mold died.

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    Fleming's experiment advancement

    Fleming's work led to the development of antibiotics.

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    Scientific Method Steps

    A series of steps used to investigate a phenomenon, including observation, hypothesis, experiment, analysis, and conclusion.

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    Independent vs. Dependent Variable

    The independent variable is the factor that is changed or manipulated in an experiment, while the dependent variable is the factor that is measured or observed in response to the independent variable.

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    Dr. Eijkman's Question

    What caused the beriberi disease in the Dutch East Indies?

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    Original Hypothesis

    The disease beriberi was caused by bacteria.

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    Manipulated vs. Responding Variable

    The manipulated variable was the type of rice (whole-grain vs. polished), and the responding variable was the health of the chickens.

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    Experiment Results

    Chickens fed polished rice developed beriberi, while those fed whole-grain rice remained healthy.

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    Fleming's Observation

    Mold called Penicillium prevented the growth of Staphylococcus bacteria in culture dishes.

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    Study Notes

    Earth's Motion and Role in the Universe

    • Earth's motion is explained by its origin in the galaxy and solar system, and its movement within the solar system is elliptical.
    • Earth's role is part of a larger hierarchy: solar system, galaxy, and universe.
    • Factors impacting Earth's motion include precession, barycenter, nutation, revolution, rotation, and elliptical orbit.

    Kepler's Laws of Planetary Motion

    • Kepler's laws explain how planets orbit stars.
    • Kepler's laws include three separate concepts, but these are described separately in more detail elsewhere.

    Earth's Motion in the Solar System

    • Earth's tilt is responsible for seasons.
    • Earth's relative motion within the solar system, galaxy, and universe is important to its seasons.
    • Key factors include tilt, solar/lunar eclipses, seasons, tropics (Cancer & Capricorn), arctic/antarctic circle, solstices, and equinoxes.
    • Sun's motion is not stationary; all objects in the solar system affect it.

    Earth's Rotation and Revolution

    • Daily changes are due to the Earth's gravity interacting with the moon.
    • Seasons change due to the tilt and revolution of Earth around the sun.
    • Tides change throughout the day (diurnal, semi-diurnal, and mixed).

    Earth's Size and Shape

    • Circumference around the equator is larger than around the poles.

    Sun's Energy

    • The sun produces energy through fusion and fission.
    • The sun produces various forms of energy, some of which are filtered by the atmosphere.
    • Energy flows from sun to Earth via electromagnetic radiation.

    Earth's Surface Heating

    • Land heats faster than water due to differences in specific heat.
    • Solar energy transforms into chemical energy, essential for life.
    • Earth's magnetosphere protects it from solar radiation.

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