Ecosystems and Interactions

An ecosystem consists of all the organisms and the physical environment with which they interact.

Biotic and abiotic components are linked together through nutrient cycles and energy flows.

Energy enters the system through photosynthesis and is incorporated into plant tissue.

<p>Animals play an important role in the movement of matter and energy through the system by feeding on plants and on one another.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Decomposers break down dead organic matter, release carbon back to the atmosphere, and facilitate nutrient cycling by converting nutrients stored in dead biomass back to a form that can be readily used by plants and microbes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Climate change refers to the ongoing increase in global average temperature and its effects on Earth's climate system.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The main causes of global warming are the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and certain agricultural and industrial practices, which increase greenhouse gas emissions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Greenhouse gases absorb some of the heat that the Earth radiates after it warms from sunlight. Higher levels of these gases trap more heat in Earth's lower atmosphere, leading to global warming.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Climate change is causing increasing impacts on the environment, such as the expansion of deserts, more frequent heat waves and wildfires, melting permafrost, glacial retreat, and loss of sea ice.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Climate change has led to amplified warming in the Arctic, resulting in melting permafrost, glacial retreat, and loss of sea ice.</p> Signup and view all the answers