Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of the following best describes an ecosystem function?
Which of the following best describes an ecosystem function?
- The natural processes and interactions that maintain ecosystem balance. (correct)
- The extraction of raw materials from an ecosystem for human use.
- The classification of different species within an ecosystem.
- The aesthetic value of a natural landscape for tourism.
How do decomposers contribute to nutrient cycling in an ecosystem?
How do decomposers contribute to nutrient cycling in an ecosystem?
- By absorbing nutrients directly from the atmosphere.
- By converting sunlight into chemical energy.
- By breaking down dead organisms and returning nutrients to the environment. (correct)
- By consuming primary producers.
Which of the following is an example of a regulating ecosystem service?
Which of the following is an example of a regulating ecosystem service?
- Offering recreational hiking trails.
- Providing timber for construction.
- Supporting soil formation.
- Controlling climate and air quality. (correct)
What is the most significant role of plants (producers) in the flow of energy through an ecosystem?
What is the most significant role of plants (producers) in the flow of energy through an ecosystem?
Which activity would most likely lead to a decrease in ecosystem stability and resilience?
Which activity would most likely lead to a decrease in ecosystem stability and resilience?
How does biodiversity contribute to the resilience of an ecosystem?
How does biodiversity contribute to the resilience of an ecosystem?
In what way do animals contribute to nutrient cycling within an ecosystem?
In what way do animals contribute to nutrient cycling within an ecosystem?
Consider a forest ecosystem. If a disease significantly reduces the population of a primary tree species, what is the most likely initial impact on the ecosystem?
Consider a forest ecosystem. If a disease significantly reduces the population of a primary tree species, what is the most likely initial impact on the ecosystem?
What phrase would best describe the relationship between ecosystem stability and biodiversity?
What phrase would best describe the relationship between ecosystem stability and biodiversity?
If a new housing development clears a large area of forest, how will the local water cycle be most immediately impacted?
If a new housing development clears a large area of forest, how will the local water cycle be most immediately impacted?
Flashcards
Ecosystem Function
Ecosystem Function
Ecosystem function refers to the natural processes and interactions that help ecosystems work and stay balanced.
Energy Flow
Energy Flow
The sun provides energy to plants (producers), which are then consumed by animals. Decomposers return nutrients to the soil.
Nutrient Cycling
Nutrient Cycling
Nutrients such as carbon, nitrogen, and water are reused in nature.
Ecosystem Services
Ecosystem Services
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Ecosystem Stability & Resilience
Ecosystem Stability & Resilience
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Cultural Benefits
Cultural Benefits
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Producers and Sunlight
Producers and Sunlight
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Ecosystem Resilience
Ecosystem Resilience
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Provisioning
Provisioning
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Study Notes
Ecosystem Function
- Ecosystem function involves natural processes and interactions, which help ecosystems stay balanced.
- These processes include energy movement, nutrient cycling, and organism interactions.
Main Functions of an Ecosystem
Energy Flow
- The sun is the source of energy for ecosystems.
- Plants (producers) create food through sunlight.
- Animals (consumers) acquire energy by consuming plants or other animals.
- Decomposers break down dead organisms and return nutrients to the soil.
Nutrient Cycling
- Elements like carbon, nitrogen, and water are recycled in nature.
- Plants obtain nutrients from the soil and air.
- Animals obtain nutrients by eating plants or other animals.
- Decomposers cycle nutrients back into the environment.
Ecosystem Services
- Provisioning services provide food, water, and resources.
- Regulating services control climate, floods, and air quality.
- Cultural services offer recreational, spiritual, and aesthetic benefits.
- Supporting services aid soil formation, plant growth, and biodiversity.
Ecosystem Stability & Resilience
- A healthy ecosystem is more capable of recovering from disasters.
- Biodiversity strengthens ecosystems.
- Negative human activities can harm ecosystems.
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