Ecological Equilibrium

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What is the balance of nature theory?

The balance of nature theory proposes that ecological systems are usually in a stable equilibrium or homeostasis.

How does the balance of nature theory describe the balance in ecological systems?

The balance is depicted as both easily disturbed and delicate, as well as powerful enough to correct any imbalances by itself.

What is the normative aspect of the balance of nature theory?

The balance of nature theory is described as normative because it makes a claim about how nature should be: balanced.

Give an example of how the balance of nature theory is applied.

The theory can be applied to describe how populations depend on each other, such as in predator-prey systems or relationships between herbivores and their food source. Signup and view all the answers

How is the balance of nature theory sometimes applied to the relationship between the Earth's ecosystem?

The balance of nature theory is sometimes applied to describe the relationship between the Earth's ecosystem and its components. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of nuclear weapons tests?

To determine the performance, yield, and effects of nuclear weapons. Signup and view all the answers

What practical information can be obtained from nuclear weapons tests?

Information about how the weapons function, how detonations are affected by different conditions, and how personnel, structures, and equipment are affected when subjected to nuclear explosions. Signup and view all the answers

Why has nuclear testing often been used as an indicator of scientific and military strength?

Because many tests have been overtly political in their intention and most nuclear weapons states publicly declared their nuclear status through a nuclear test. Signup and view all the answers

Where and when was the first nuclear device detonated as a test?

The first nuclear device was detonated at the Trinity site in New Mexico on July 16, 1945. Signup and view all the answers

Where and when was the first thermonuclear weapon technology test of an engineered device conducted?

The first thermonuclear weapon technology test of an engineered device, codenamed 'Ivy Mike', was tested at the Enewetak Atoll in the Marshall Islands on November 1, 1952 (local date), by the United States. Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their definitions:

Nutrition = The biochemical and physiological process by which an organism uses food to support its life Nutritional science = The study of nutrition, typically emphasizing human nutrition Malnutrition = Failure to obtain sufficient nutrients Organic matter = What organisms consume to obtain nutrients Signup and view all the answers

Match the organisms with the ways they obtain nutrients:

Certain organisms = Can produce nutrients internally by consuming basic elements Some organisms = Must consume other organisms to obtain pre-existing nutrients Animals = Require complex nutrients such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, obtaining them by consuming other organisms Humans = Have developed agriculture and cooking to replace foraging Signup and view all the answers

Match the following requirements with the forms of life that need them:

Carbon, energy, and water = All forms of life Complex nutrients such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins = Animals Organic or inorganic matter, or light = Organisms depending on their type Agriculture and cooking = Humans Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their related facts:

Nutrition = Provides organisms with nutrients, which can be metabolized to create energy and chemical structures Malnutrition = Caused by failure to obtain sufficient nutrients Organic matter = Consumed by organisms to obtain nutrients Nutritional science = Typically emphasizes human nutrition Signup and view all the answers

Match the following nutrients with the organisms that require them:

Carbon, energy, and water = All forms of life Carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins = Animals Organic or inorganic matter, or light = Organisms depending on their type Basic elements = Certain organisms that can produce nutrients internally Signup and view all the answers