Life Science: November Paper 2 Mix
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Questions and Answers

What occupies the largest base of the pyramid due to their high energy content?

  • Primary Consumers
  • Secondary Consumers
  • Producers (correct)
  • Tertiary Consumers

    • Which type of pyramid displays the total mass of living material at each trophic level?

  • Pyramid of Energy
  • Pyramid of Biomass (correct)
  • Pyramid of Numbers
  • None of the Above

    • What happens to energy as one moves up the pyramid in terms of the Pyramid of Energy?

  • Energy stays the same
  • Energy decreases (correct)
  • Energy multiplies
  • Energy increases

    • What is the likely consequence of removing a hyena, which acts as both a scavenger and a predator?

    <p>Increase in the population of primary and secondary consumers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which trophic level occupies the top of the pyramid?

    <p>Tertiary Consumers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the complexity of a food web contribute to an ecosystem?

    <p>Enhanced stability</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does genetic diversity refer to?

    <p>Variation in genes within a single species</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of biodiversity is crucial for a species' adaptation to changing environments?

    <p>Genetic diversity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines a species?

    <p>Group of similar organisms capable of interbreeding</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is ecological diversity important?

    <p>To maintain variety among ecosystems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of diversity includes all genetic information shared among a species' members?

    <p>Species diversity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does genetic diversity aid in a species' survival?

    <p>By enabling adaptation to changing environments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does genetic information play in a species?

    <p>Determines the traits passed down from parents to offspring</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to minimize human impact in protected areas?

    <p>To preserve natural habitats and biodiversity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does species diversity contribute to the resilience of ecosystems?

    <p>By ensuring a wider range of traits for ecosystem function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of diversity involves the landscape and climate of an area?

    <p>Ecological diversity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor significantly influences biodiversity distribution across the Earth?

    <p>Climate, geography, and the presence of other species</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where is South Africa considered a critical biodiversity hotspot?

    <p>Karoo and the Cape</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many bird species are found in South Africa?

    <p>Over 800</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is conservation of biodiversity considered critical?

    <p>To maintain the health of ecosystems and provide essential services</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is taxonomy also known as?

    <p>Systematic process</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does biological classification involve?

    <p>Organizing diversity into hierarchical categories based on shared traits</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What illustrates the dichotomous nature of classification systems?

    <p>Categorizing TV programs into groups</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a challenge highlighted in classification systems?

    <p>Overlapping categories and depth of classification</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is biological classification deeply rooted in?

    <p>Scientific research including anatomy, genetics, and evolutionary biology</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the systematic process of biological classification progress?

    <p>From general characteristics to specific ones</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key aspect emphasized by conceptual frameworks in ecology and conservation efforts?

    <p>The importance of each organism in maintaining ecosystem balance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which process is a vital part of the water cycle responsible for the return of water to Earth in various forms?

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

    What ecological role does nitrogen play in living organisms?

    <p>Contributing to amino acid and nucleic acid synthesis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the carbon cycle, what main process converts atmospheric carbon dioxide into organic molecules?

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

    What is the term reflecting the combined nature of evaporation and transpiration in the water cycle?

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

    What is the primary function of the oxygen cycle in nature?

    <p>Support life through oxygen exchange</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which process involves converting atmospheric nitrogen into forms usable by living organisms?

    <p>Nitrogen Fixation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term used to describe the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth's surface?

    <p>Hydrological Cycle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which process involves decomposing organisms releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere in the carbon cycle?

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

    What is the fundamental focus of South Africa as a tourist destination according to the text?

    <p>Cultural heritage and biodiversity for eco-tourism</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Approximately how long ago did the first life forms, primarily simple single-celled organisms, emerge on Earth?

    <p>1.9 billion years ago</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which event led to the oxygenation of the atmosphere approximately 3.5 billion years ago?

    <p>Evolution of Photosynthesis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes eukaryotic cells from prokaryotic cells?

    <p>Presence of a nucleus</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Algae, the precursors to plants, first appeared approximately how long ago?

    <p>1.2 billion years ago</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which geological event did the first vertebrates appear around 525 million years ago?

    <p>Cambrian Explosion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which tool helps in the classification of organisms by providing a systematic approach based on physical characteristics?

    <p>Dichotomous Key</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What marks the subdivisions of eons, representing significant changes in the type and distribution of flora and fauna?

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

    What is the division of the geological timescale that often defines distinct types of life existing at the time along with climate conditions?

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

    Which event unfolded over billions of years and is marked by significant evolutionary innovations and shifts in Earth's environmental conditions?

    <p>History of Life on Earth</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What term refers to the movement of Earth's continents over geological time?

    <p>Continental Drift</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is driving the ongoing sixth mass extinction according to current scientific consensus?

    <p>Habitat destruction, climate change, overexploitation of species, and pollution</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What sets the ongoing sixth extinction apart from previous mass extinctions?

    <p>It is primarily driven by human activities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How have human activities modified the natural environment according to the text?

    <p>Resulting in biodiversity loss and various forms of environmental impact</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is NOT mentioned as a driver of the ongoing sixth mass extinction in the text?

    <p>Geological shifts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are some of the primary anthropogenic factors causing species to disappear rapidly according to the text?

    <p>Overexploitation of species and pollution</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What differentiates the sixth mass extinction from past mass extinctions based on the text?

    <p>Being primarily driven by human activities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Linnaeus's binomial nomenclature consist of?

    <p>Latinized two-part names representing genus and species</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which kingdom includes unicellular, prokaryotic organisms that reproduce asexually?

    <p>Kingdom Monera</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Ernst Haeckel propose in the evolution of kingdom systems?

    <p>Five-kingdom system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the distinguishing characteristic of eukaryotes according to the text?

    <p>Presence of nucleus and organelles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who introduced modifications towards a binomial system in classification?

    <p>Caspar Bauhin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the Five Kingdom System classify based on?

    <p>Differences in cellular structure and complexity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which kingdom includes eukaryotic organisms that can be unicellular or simple multicellular?

    <p>Kingdom Protista</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which geological era did unicellular organisms, primarily prokaryotes, begin to flourish?

    <p>Archean Eon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was Aristotle's classification system limited by?

    <p>Taxonomic knowledge of the time</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of bacteria evolved around 3 billion years ago, releasing oxygen into the atmosphere?

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

    What is a characteristic feature of Kingdom Animalia?

    <p>Heterotrophic and mostly motile organisms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What structures, formed by communities of bacteria and sediments, serve as one of the earliest forms of life evidence?

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

    What method determines the age of fossils based on their placement in sedimentary rock layers?

    <p>Relative Dating</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What cellular feature distinguishes prokaryotes from eukaryotes?

    <p>Lack of nucleus and complex organelles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which geological period is renowned for the rapid diversification of life forms known as the 'Cambrian Explosion'?

    <p>Cambrian Period</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What event ended the Paleozoic Era and wiped out a significant percentage of marine and terrestrial species?

    <p>Permian-Triassic Extinction Event</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When do methods for dating fossils, like Radiometric Dating and Relative Dating, help in determining the age of fossils?

    <p>After the fossils are formed</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What key mechanism of evolution, proposed by Charles Darwin, explains how traits enhancing survival become more common in populations over generations?

    <p>Natural Selection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which geological era marks the formation of the first oceans and atmosphere, and likely led to the synthesis of the first self-replicating molecules?

    <p>Hadean Eon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What marked the most significant evolutionary milestone during the Paleozoic Era?

    <p>Colonization of Land by Plants</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the major feature of the Mesozoic Era?

    <p>Evolution of dinosaurs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which event ended the dominance of dinosaurs?

    <p>Triassic-Jurassic Extinction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterized the end of the Cretaceous period?

    <p>Demise of dinosaurs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which mass extinction is known as the 'Great Dying'?

    <p>Permian-Triassic Extinction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What drove the Late Devonian Extinction event primarily?

    <p>Changes in sea level</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which major extinction allowed for the rapid diversification of mammals?

    <p>Cretaceous-Paleogene Extinction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary driver of the Triassic-Jurassic Extinction event?

    <p>Climate change</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which theory suggests that asteroid impacts played a role in mass extinctions?

    <p>Extraterrestrial Theories</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What led to the loss of approximately 85% of marine species during the Ordovician-Silurian Extinction?

    <p>Climate change from glaciation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which event paved the way for mammals to become the dominant terrestrial vertebrates?

    <p>Cretaceous-Paleogene Extinction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are tertiary consumers least in number in the trophic pyramid?

    <p>They have the highest energy loss when consuming secondary consumers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the Pyramid of Biomass represent?

    <p>Total mass of living material at each trophic level.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is a food web considered more stable than a simple food chain?

    <p>It provides multiple food sources for each organism.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the removal of a hyena in an ecosystem impact the population dynamics?

    <p>It causes an imbalanced increase in primary and secondary consumers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why do primary consumers tend to be fewer in number compared to producers?

    <p>Energy is lost when transferring energy from plants to herbivores.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main characteristic of the Pyramid of Energy?

    <p>It typically shows a decrease in energy content as one moves up the pyramid.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What plays a crucial role in the production and sustenance of life on Earth?

    <p>Nutrient cycles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the oxygen cycle, what is the primary process by which oxygen is released?

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

    Which nutrient cycle primarily involves converting atmospheric nitrogen into forms usable by living organisms?

    <p>Nitrogen cycle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the end result of plants absorbing carbon dioxide in the carbon cycle?

    <p>Conversion to organic molecules</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which term describes a combined process in the water cycle involving evaporation and transpiration?

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

    In the nitrogen cycle, what is the main way animals obtain nitrogen?

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

    Which ecological role does carbon play in living organisms?

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

    What releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere in the carbon cycle?

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

    What occurs when water vapor cools and converts back into liquid form in the water cycle?

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

    Which process in the nitrogen cycle converts ammonia to nitrates and then reduces nitrates back to nitrogen gas?

    <p>Nitrification and denitrification</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is species diversity primarily concerned with?

    <p>The variety of species within a specific region</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect distinguishes genetic diversity from species diversity?

    <p>The variations in gene sequences within a single species</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one key benefit of ecological diversity?

    <p>Variety of ecosystems promoting resilience</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor allows genetic diversity to contribute to species adaptation?

    <p>Variation in gene sequences</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of biodiversity, what does genetic diversity encompass?

    <p>Variations in gene sequences within a species</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does ecological diversity contribute to a region's ecosystem resilience?

    <p>By ensuring a large variety of natural habitats</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of diversity involves adaptations to changing environmental conditions?

    <p>Genetic diversity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines ecological diversity in a geographical area?

    <p>The variety of ecosystems in the region</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does species interbreeding affect species diversity?

    <p>Increases genetic diversity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main factor that helps ecological diversity support biodiversity?

    <p>Variety of ecosystems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is South Africa considered a critical biodiversity hotspot?

    <p>It houses a significant percentage of the world's known bird, fish, and plant species in a small area</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What makes the classification of organisms challenging in both taxonomy and TV program categorization?

    <p>Overlapping characteristics that can fit multiple categories</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the aim of the biological classification system?

    <p>To provide a framework for understanding life forms' relationships</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is conservation of biodiversity essential for ecosystems?

    <p>For the maintenance of clean air, water, and food services</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the classification activity of TV programs used as an example for understanding biological classification?

    <p>It displays the hierarchical organization inherent in classification systems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is significant about South Africa's plant diversity?

    <p>It has over 20,300 species, many of which are concentrated in the Western Cape</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main issue posed by human activities to biodiversity?

    <p>Habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change that can endanger various species</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for the vast biodiversity in South Africa?

    <p>Range of climates and landscapes giving rise to diverse biomes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does biodiversity conservation benefit future generations?

    <p>Ensuring sustainable environments to pass on to future generations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why do conservation efforts in biodiversity hotspots like South Africa play a crucial role?

    <p>For the protection of its unique and varied life forms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary driver of the ongoing sixth mass extinction?

    <p>Overexploitation of species</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What differentiates the ongoing sixth extinction from previous mass extinctions?

    <p>Driven by anthropogenic factors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the Sixth Mass Extinction unique compared to prior events?

    <p>Primarily driven by human activities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor contributes significantly to the ongoing sixth extinction?

    <p>Habitat destruction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main impact of climate change contributing to the ongoing mass extinction?

    <p>Rapid disappearance of species</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How have human activities affected biodiversity and the environment?

    <p>Resulted in biodiversity loss</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the order of the hierarchical system used in biological classification?

    <p>Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which biologist introduced modifications towards a binomial system in classification?

    <p>Caspar Bauhin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which is a distinguishing characteristic of Kingdom Monera in the Five Kingdom System?

    <p>Lacks nuclear membrane</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary nutrition method of Kingdom Fungi?

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

    Which system expanded on Carolus Linnaeus's work, integrating genetic and evolutionary knowledge?

    <p>The Five Kingdom System</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes Kingdom Plantae in the Five Kingdom System?

    <p>Multicellular and autotrophic organisms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which organism is included in Kingdom Protista?

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

    What is a key characteristic that distinguishes prokaryotes from eukaryotes?

    <p>Presence of a nucleus</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who proposed the Protista kingdom for single-celled organisms in the evolution of kingdom systems?

    <p>Ernst Haeckel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Carl Linnaeus develop to enhance the precision of the classification system?

    <p>Binomial nomenclature</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Approximately when did algae, the precursors to plants, first appear on Earth?

    <p>1.2 billion years ago</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What pivotal role did the evolution of photosynthesis play in the history of Earth?

    <p>It led to the oxygenation of the atmosphere</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Around 525 million years ago, during the Cambrian Explosion, what group of organisms first appeared?

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

    What is the primary feature that distinguishes eukaryotic cells from prokaryotic cells?

    <p>Containment of organelles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group of organisms arose approximately 3.5 billion years ago and were primarily simple single-celled organisms?

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

    What was the impact of the first life forms that emerged around 3.5 billion years ago?

    <p>Evolution of photosynthesis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What tool provides a systematic approach to identifying species based on physical characteristics?

    <p>Dichotomous key</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major development occurred around 1.9 billion years ago in the history of life on Earth?

    <p>Rise of eukaryotes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which kingdom includes organisms like sponges, jellyfish, and arthropods?

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

    What type of growth is most associated with the gradual appearance of vascular systems in plants?

    <p>Complex tissue development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant geological event influenced the distribution and evolution of organisms by altering their habitats and climate conditions?

    <p>Formation of the supercontinent Pangaea</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which Eon likely saw the synthesis of the first self-replicating molecules in the primitive environment of the Earth?

    <p>Archean Eon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Multicellular life forms with specialized cells first emerged during which geological era?

    <p>Proterozoic Eon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What marked a crucial biological advancement during the Proterozoic Eon?

    <p>Development of sexual reproduction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which event saw the rapid diversification of life forms, leading to the emergence of most major animal phyla?

    <p>Cambrian Explosion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which geological era did life flourish in the form of unicellular organisms, primarily prokaryotes?

    <p>Proterozoic Eon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which Eon began the formation of the Earth, with the cooling of the crust and the creation of oceans and atmosphere?

    <p>Hadean Eon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What process released oxygen into the atmosphere, gradually transforming it during the Archean Eon?

    <p>Photosynthesis by cyanobacteria</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which era witnessed significant biological advancements such as the development of sexual reproduction and the emergence of multicellular life forms?

    <p>Hadean Eon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the distinguishing characteristic of the Mesozoic Era according to the text?

    <p>Dominance of dinosaurs in terrestrial ecosystems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which mass extinction event led to the loss of approximately 75% of species, primarily marine life, but is not the role of any asteroids?

    <p>Late Devonian Extinction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant geological and climatic change that occurred during the Mesozoic Era besides the breakup of Pangaea?

    <p>Movement of continents</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which theory suggests that massive eruptions and climate change were significant factors in the Permian-Triassic Extinction event?

    <p>Volcanic Activity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major extinction allowed dinosaurs to dominate, possibly driven by climate change and volcanic activity?

    <p>Triassic-Jurassic Extinction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which event ended the dominance of the dinosaurs by wiping out about 75% of Earth's species, primarily due to volcanic activity and an asteroid impact?

    <p>Cretaceous-Paleogene Extinction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What key milestone linked to modern humans evolved in Africa, with developments such as bipedalism and tool use?

    <p>Evolution of Homo sapiens</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Besides asteroid impacts, what other factor is suggested to have played a role in mass extinctions due to their ability to alter climatic conditions drastically?

    <p>Methane release from oceanic shelves</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor likely contributed to the significant reduction in marine species during the Late Devonian Extinction?

    <p>Environmental changes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which event saw the Earth's most severe extinction, eradicating around 96% of marine species and 70% of terrestrial vertebrates?

    <p>Great Dying</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which trophic level contains organisms that are least in number due to the highest energy loss?

    <p>Tertiary Consumers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does a Pyramid of Biomass illustrate?

    <p>Total mass of living material</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of a food web in an ecosystem?

    <p>Provide a realistic depiction of feeding relationships</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of food webs, what impacts the ecosystem's stability positively?

    <p>Increased complexity contributing to stability</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the removal of a hyena in an ecosystem potentially lead to imbalances?

    <p>It causes a surge in the population of certain consumers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What differentiates a Pyramid of Energy from a Pyramid of Numbers?

    <p>Representation of energy content at each level</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the classification of organisms crucial for understanding biodiversity?

    <p>To provide a framework for understanding life forms and their relationships</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary challenge highlighted by the task of classifying TV programs used as an example?

    <p>Overlapping content</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor contributes significantly to the richness of biodiversity in South Africa?

    <p>Variety of climates and landscapes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What makes endemic species unique compared to indigenous species?

    <p>They are found in multiple regions globally</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the conservation of biodiversity essential for ecosystems?

    <p>To maintain the health of ecosystems and their services</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does habitat destruction endanger various species?

    <p>By reducing available resources</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which region in South Africa is specifically mentioned as a critical biodiversity hotspot?

    <p>The Karoo and the Cape</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it challenging to classify programs like BBC News under a single category?

    <p>Due to overlapping content and characteristics</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does climate change pose a threat to biodiversity?

    <p>By altering habitats and species distribution</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the classification activity of TV programs in understanding biological taxonomy?

    <p>It illustrates making decisions on categorization using shared traits</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary driver of the ongoing sixth mass extinction according to current scientific consensus?

    <p>Climate change</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor contributing to the current mass extinction differs greatly from natural background rates?

    <p>Increase in species disappearance rate</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What makes the ongoing sixth mass extinction different from previous extinctions?

    <p>It is driven by human activities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a common driver of mass extinctions as mentioned in the text?

    <p>Massive volcanic eruptions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary impact of human activities on biodiversity as stated in the text?

    <p>Accelerating species disappearance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The current mass extinction is characterized by what primary factor compared to prior extinctions?

    <p>Anthropogenic causes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which process involves the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia or nitrates?

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

    What happens when water vapor cools and converts back into liquid form?

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

    What is the term for a combined process of evaporation and transpiration in the water cycle?

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

    In the oxygen cycle, what is the complementary process to photosynthesis?

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

    What role do plants play in the carbon cycle by converting atmospheric carbon dioxide?

    <p>Metabolism and Cellular Respiration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which nutrient cycle involves the seeping of water into the soil and further purification as it penetrates deeper?

    <p>Water Cycle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What critical process involves the melting of ice and the return of water to the oceans or its storage in ice caps?

    <p>Melting and Freezing</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which process involves the release of ammonia back into the atmosphere from decomposing organisms?

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

    What is the primary source of oxygen release into the atmosphere in the oxygen cycle?

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

    Which process involves the breakdown of nitrogenous materials back into ammonia in the nitrogen cycle?

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

    What term refers to the variations in genes within a single species?

    <p>Genetic diversity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does ecological diversity contribute to biodiversity?

    <p>By supporting a variety of ecosystems within a region</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which diversity type includes all the genetic information shared among a species' members?

    <p>Genetic diversity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of species' gene pools in biodiversity?

    <p>To maintain genetic variation within the species</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does genetic diversity contribute to a species' survival?

    <p>By enabling adaptation to changing environmental conditions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the Cape Floral Region in South Africa's biodiversity?

    <p>It is part of a globally unique biome</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is ecological diversity considered vital for environmental sustainability?

    <p>It enhances resilience to environmental changes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of diversity involves the adaptations of a species to changing environmental conditions?

    <p>Genetic diversity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does South Africa's biodiversity support its global status as a mega diverse country?

    <p>By contributing 10% of the planet's plant species</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do national parks and protected areas play in South Africa's conservation efforts?

    <p>They preserve the ecological integrity of ecosystems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Approximately when did algae, the precursors to plants, first appear on Earth?

    <p>1.2 billion years ago</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary cell type of the first life forms to emerge around 3.5 billion years ago?

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

    During which event did invertebrates arise, marking a significant development in life forms?

    <p>Cambrian Explosion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following scientists proposed a four-kingdom model acknowledging the distinction between eukaryotes and prokaryotes?

    <p>Caspar Bauhin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What kind of reproduction is most commonly associated with organisms in Kingdom Monera?

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

    Around 525 million years ago, which major evolutionary event led to the appearance of the first vertebrates?

    <p>Invertebrates Development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic distinguishes organisms in Kingdom Fungi?

    <p>Presence of chlorophyll</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of bacteria evolved the ability to perform photosynthesis around 3.5 billion years ago?

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

    Which category in the Five Kingdom System comprises organisms like sponges and jellyfish?

    <p>Kingdom Monera</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary nutritional strategy of the first life forms to emerge on Earth?

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

    According to the Five Kingdom System, which group includes eukaryotic organisms that can be unicellular or simple multicellular?

    <p>Kingdom Plantae</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Approximately how long ago did the first multicellular organisms appear, leading to more complex life forms?

    <p>1.7 billion years ago</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What key contribution did Robert Whittaker make with the Five Kingdom System?

    <p>Classified organisms based on cellular structure</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What were the first multicellular organisms that appeared around 1.7 billion years ago primarily characterized by?

    <p>Development of specialized tissues and organs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Approximately when did eukaryotes, cells with nuclei and organelles, first evolve?

    <p>1.9 billion years ago</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What notable modification did Carl Linnaeus introduce to the classification system?

    <p>Proposed the Protista kingdom</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the significance of the emergence of eukaryotic cells on Earth's biological history?

    <p>Introduction of complex cellular structures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the Five Kingdom System, which organisms possess a nucleus and organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts?

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

    During which mass extinction event did the Earth witness the eradication of approximately 96% of marine species and 70% of terrestrial vertebrates?

    <p>Permian-Triassic Extinction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterized Aristotle's classification system that was foundational but limited?

    <p>Distinguished between multicellular and unicellular organisms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which kingdom in the Five Kingdom System is composed of organisms with chitin cell walls and primarily decompose organic matter?

    <p>Kingdom Monera</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which event allowed the dominance of dinosaurs and caused the disappearance of 50% of species due to climate change and volcanic activity disruptions?

    <p>Triassic-Jurassic Extinction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the probable cause of the Late Devonian Extinction that affected 75% of species primarily in marine environments?

    <p>Changes in sea level</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which era is characterized by the rapid evolution and diversification of mammals and the movement of continents to their current positions?

    <p>Cenozoic Era</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the Cretaceous-Paleogene Extinction significantly alter biodiversity on Earth?

    <p>Meteor impacts leading to a mass extinction event</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What geological era concluded with mass extinction attributed to volcanic activity and meteor impacts, allowing mammals to become dominant?

    <p>Mesozoic Era</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which Earth-bound theory suggests that the reshaping of oceans and continents can lead to severe climate shifts, impacting living conditions and contributing to extinctions?

    <p>Continental Drift and Plate Tectonics</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What allowed for the rapid development of Homo sapiens, including key attributes like bipedalism and tool use, in the evolutionary process?

    <p>Evolution of Homo sapiens</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did cyanobacteria play in Earth's history during the Archean Eon?

    <p>Producing oxygen and transforming the atmosphere</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which major event paved the way for mammals to become the dominant terrestrial vertebrates, as it led to the downfall of the dinosaurs?

    <p>Cretaceous-Paleogene Extinction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What biological advancements occurred during the Proterozoic Eon?

    <p>Development of sexual reproduction and emergence of multicellular life forms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the Earth's history's most severe extinction, with around 96% of marine species and 70% of terrestrial vertebrate species perishing?

    <p>Permian-Triassic Extinction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What event marked a rapid diversification of life forms during the Cambrian Period?

    <p>Cambrian Explosion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which geological era did the colonization of land by primitive plants and later by insects and amphibians occur?

    <p>Paleozoic Era</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant outcome of the Permian-Triassic Extinction Event?

    <p>Largest mass extinction in Earth's history</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What marks an evolutionary milestone during the Paleozoic Era?

    <p>Diversification of fish</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a distinctive feature of the Archean Eon in Earth's history?

    <p>Atmosphere devoid of oxygen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What process played a crucial role in the diversification of life forms on Earth according to Charles Darwin?

    <p>Natural Selection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which structure serves as one of the earliest forms of life evidence?

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

    What is the key mechanism of evolution explained by Charles Darwin?

    <p>Natural Selection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of circulatory system is characterized by blood enclosed within a network of blood vessels?

    <p>Closed circulatory system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which organisms is an open circulatory system primarily found?

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

    What propels the movement of fluid (hemolymph) in an open circulatory system?

    <p>Muscular contractions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following organisms is likely to have greater circulatory efficiency due to its circulatory system?

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

    What is the main drawback of an open circulatory system compared to closed systems?

    <p>Less efficiency</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of circulatory system allows organs to be directly bathed in blood for nutrient exchange and waste removal?

    <p>Open circulatory system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the lymphatic system?

    <p>Returning interstitial fluid to the bloodstream</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where does the pulmonary circulation transport blood to and from?

    <p>From the right ventricle to the lungs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which feature characterizes the cardiac walls of the heart?

    <p>Striated cardiac muscle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What differentiates the lymphatic system from the cardiovascular system in terms of circulation?

    <p>Lack of heart as a central pump</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where do the superior and inferior vena cava transport blood to in the heart?

    <p>To the right atrium</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of lymph nodes in the lymphatic system?

    <p>Filtering lymph and trapping microorganisms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of the pericardium in the heart?

    <p>Encasing the heart in a fluid-filled sac</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How are lymphatic vessels different from cardiovascular vessels?

    <p>Have valves to prevent backflow</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the heart's anchorage?

    <p>Position maintained by blood vessels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of lymph organs like the spleen and thymus in the lymphatic system?

    <p>Filtering lymph and producing immune cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During the cardiac cycle, what happens when the ventricles are in diastole?

    <p>Both atria and ventricles relax.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the SA node in controlling the heartbeat?

    <p>Regulating the rate and rhythm of the heartbeat.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What event triggers the contraction of the atria during the cardiac cycle?

    <p>SA node generates an impulse causing atrial contraction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition can result from an untreated hypertensive state?

    <p>Increased risk of strokes and aneurysms.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What stimulates the heart to beat faster during muscular activity?

    <p>Increased blood volume returning to the right atrium.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which artery supplies oxygenated blood to the heart muscles?

    <p>Coronary arteries</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What causes the death of cardiac muscle during a heart attack?

    <p>Obstruction of coronary arteries by plaques.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which valve prevents the backflow of blood from the pulmonary arteries during ventricular systole?

    <p>Semilunar valve</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key role of the tricuspid valve during the cardiac cycle?

    <p>Closing to prevent backflow of blood into the right atrium.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does decreased blood flow resistance have on blood pressure?

    <p>Leads to hypotension.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main advantage of a double circulatory system compared to a single circulatory system?

    <p>Higher pressure and faster flow of blood</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the human circulatory system, which structure prevents the mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood?

    <p>Pulmonary veins</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main difference in the circulation pathways between fish and mammals?

    <p>Fish utilize a single circulation pathway, and mammals a double circulation pathway</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which circulatory system type is associated with more active animals due to supporting higher metabolic demands?

    <p>Double circulatory system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What differentiates the lymphatic circulatory system from the cardiovascular system in humans?

    <p>Lacks oxygen transportation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What physiological advantage does the separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood offer in the circulatory system of higher vertebrates?

    <p>Efficient oxygen supply</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key function of the cardiovascular system concerning temperature regulation?

    <p>Indirect stabilization of internal body temperature</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which type of animals is the open circulatory system adequate for metabolic demands?

    <p>Small or less active invertebrates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which feature of the capillary bed in single circulation pathways limits the speed at which blood can be pumped?

    <p>Presence of only one capillary bed</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What allows the closed circulatory system to support higher metabolic demands compared to the open circulatory system?

    <p>Higher efficiency and faster flow</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of autotrophs in an ecosystem?

    <p>To convert solar energy into chemical energy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of energy from producers do tertiary consumers gain?

    <p>0.1%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which trophic level receives about 1% of the energy stored by producers?

    <p>Secondary Consumers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic of decomposers in an ecosystem?

    <p>They break down dead organic matter</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of energy flow in an ecosystem?

    <p>To transfer energy from one part of the ecosystem to another</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which organisms form the basis of the food chain in an ecosystem?

    <p>Primary Consumers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do changes in the biosphere impact other Earth spheres?

    <p>By affecting aquatic life in the hydrosphere.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes marine biomes from freshwater biomes primarily?

    <p>Salinity levels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes estuaries among aquatic biomes?

    <p>They have high salt concentration levels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which terrestrial biome would one expect to find birds, mammals, and insects in significant numbers?

    <p>Forest biome.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What sets the savanna biome apart from other terrestrial biomes?

    <p>Support for many large mammals and birds.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which South African biome is known for its Mediterranean climate and endemic species?

    <p>Fynbos biome.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes the flora of the desert biome?

    <p>Low-growing plants with water conservation adaptations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are wetlands crucial ecosystems despite being inundated with water?

    <p>For flood control, water filtration, and biodiversity support.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where are coral reefs typically found?

    <p>In warm, shallow waters.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What makes forest biomes distinct in terms of climate?

    <p>They have high precipitation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the defining feature of ecotourism according to the text?

    <p>Emphasis on responsible travel to natural areas</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why does ecotourism contribute to local income generation?

    <p>By creating jobs that involve preserving the environment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group of organisms directly produce their own food through photosynthesis in ecosystems?

    <p>Producers (Autotrophs)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do decomposers play in ecosystems?

    <p>Break down dead organic material returning nutrients to the environment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which abiotic factors directly influence an ecosystem's characteristics?

    <p>Temperature, water availability, and sunlight</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What information does studying physiographic factors in ecosystems provide?

    <p>Assessment of physical characteristics like slope and altitude</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of ecotourism, what does community involvement primarily aim to achieve?

    <p>Equitably distributing tourism benefits and respecting local cultures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key emphasis of ethical considerations in ecotourism?

    <p>Minimizing environmental impact and boosting conservation efforts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do climatic factors affect ecosystems?

    <p>By influencing temperature, water availability, and sunlight</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What crucial role do consumers (heterotrophs) play in ecosystems?

    <p>Depend on others for food</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of water vapor in the atmosphere according to the text?

    <p>Influencing weather patterns and climate</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component of the hydrosphere is mentioned to be the largest habitat in the biosphere?

    <p>Oceans (Salt Water)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere according to the text?

    <p>Supporting photosynthesis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of the biosphere, what is the significance of the lithosphere's mineral ions?

    <p>Nutritional needs of plants and animals</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is oxygen considered vital in the atmosphere according to the text?

    <p>Facilitating cellular respiration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following components of the atmosphere plays a role in protecting Earth from harmful UV rays?

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

    What makes up a large percentage of Earth's lithosphere?

    <p>Rocks and Soil</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does nitrogen play in the biosphere as mentioned in the text?

    <p>Essential for protein synthesis in living organisms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the hydrosphere influence global climate patterns according to the text?

    <p>Through the water cycle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What adaptation allows plants like cacti to thrive in arid environments?

    <p>Xerophytic features to minimize water loss</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following animal groups is categorized as secondary consumers?

    <p>Leopards and snakes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In an ecosystem, what is the primary role of decomposers?

    <p>To break down dead organic matter and return nutrients to the soil</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What physiographic factors significantly influence the local environment's characteristics?

    <p>Slope, aspect, and altitude</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following represents a fundamental process that recycles essential elements in an ecosystem?

    <p>Nutrient cycles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of atmospheric gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide in supporting life?

    <p>Supporting life through biogeochemical cycles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are scavengers like hyenas considered significant in ecosystems?

    <p>For decomposing organic matter</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which abiotic factor directly affects the survival and distribution of organisms?

    <p>Light intensity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of consumers within an ecosystem?

    <p>Consuming other organisms for nutrition</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do biotic and abiotic factors collectively contribute to in an environment?

    <p>Shaping the dynamic interactions and support systems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key difference between open and closed circulatory systems?

    <p>Directional flow of blood</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of organisms would likely benefit the most from an open circulatory system?

    <p>Sedentary invertebrates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What allows closed circulatory systems to provide more efficient delivery of nutrients compared to open circulatory systems?

    <p>Controlled flow through networks of blood vessels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is hemolymph movement in open circulatory systems less efficient than in closed systems?

    <p>Dependence on body movements to circulate</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In open circulatory systems, where does the hemolymph flow directly?

    <p>Into an exterior body cavity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which circulatory system would likely be more adaptable to changes in metabolic demands?

    <p>Closed circulatory system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes a single circulatory system from a double circulatory system in vertebrates?

    <p>The speed at which blood can be pumped</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following animals likely exhibits a single circulatory system based on the text?

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

    How does a double circulatory system benefit animals such as mammals and birds?

    <p>Maintains a higher pressure for faster flow</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the human circulatory system, which chamber of the heart does oxygen-rich blood leave from?

    <p>Left ventricle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main function of the lymphatic circulatory system in humans?

    <p>Supporting immune defense</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the difference between the cardiovascular and lymphatic systems?

    <p>The cardiovascular system is closed, while the lymphatic system is an open system.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor contributes to the efficiency of the closed circulatory system as mentioned in the text?

    <p>Separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a distinctive feature of the human pulmonary circulation in the circulatory system?

    <p>Transport of deoxygenated blood to the lungs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the double circulatory system prevent the mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood?

    <p>By carrying blood through two separate circuits</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which organ receives deoxygenated blood in the human cardiovascular system?

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

    What is the main function of the lymphatic system in the human body?

    <p>Draining lymph from tissues and maintaining fluid balance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a component of the lymphatic system?

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

    What key role does the spleen play in the lymphatic system?

    <p>Filtering lymph and trapping microorganisms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does the lymphatic system contribute to immune responses?

    <p>It helps in the production and maturation of lymphocytes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the lymphatic system aid in maintaining fluid balance in the body?

    <p>By removing excess interstitial fluid</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What differentiates the lymphatic system from the cardiovascular system in terms of circulation?

    <p>The lymphatic system lacks a central pump like the heart</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which organ assists in the production and maturation of lymphocytes in the human body?

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

    How does the lymphatic system contribute to the transport of fatty acids?

    <p>By draining chyle from the digestive system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which part of the lymphatic system is responsible for filtering bacteria and microorganisms?

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

    What does lymph primarily consist of that makes it beneficial for the body?

    <p>Clear fluid that removes waste and excess water</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main function of the atmosphere in the biosphere?

    <p>Facilitating cellular respiration and photosynthesis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the hydrosphere considered vital for the biosphere?

    <p>It supports a wide range of aquatic life and influences global climates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines a biome within the biosphere?

    <p>An area with distinct climatic conditions and specific plant and animal species</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the lithosphere essential for terrestrial life?

    <p>It provides a foundational structure for habitats and nutrients for organisms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes an ecosystem from a biome?

    <p>The presence of a specific set of species</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the study of populations important in understanding the biosphere?

    <p>To assess interactions and dynamics among species in a given area</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the biosphere?

    <p>To provide habitats and sustenance for living organisms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the biosphere's interaction with other Earth spheres?

    <p>It influences global climate patterns through water availability</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact do organisms' niches have on the environment?

    <p>They affect the ecosystem's stability and dynamics</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the atmosphere contribute to the biosphere's overall health?

    <p>By supporting cellular respiration and photosynthesis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common impact of deforestation in the biosphere?

    <p>Increased soil erosion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes marine biomes from freshwater biomes primarily?

    <p>Higher salt concentration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a defining characteristic of the desert biome mentioned in the text?

    <p>Sparse vegetation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where would one find grasses with sparse tree coverage and various herbivores in a terrestrial biome?

    <p>Grassland biome</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which biome is characterized by low biodiversity, cold temperatures, and minimal precipitation?

    <p>Tundra biome</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines the estuaries among aquatic biomes?

    <p>Mixing of freshwater and saltwater</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What key feature distinguishes the fynbos biome in South Africa?

    <p>Adaptation to fire and nutrient poor soils</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which biome supports diverse ecosystems in vast bodies of saltwater covering the Earth's surface?

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

    What is the main distinction between wetlands and rivers in freshwater biomes?

    <p>Permanent water saturation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How are forest biomes primarily influenced in terms of geography and climate?

    <p>High precipitation regions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary source of energy in an ecosystem's energy flow?

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

    Which trophic level receives the smallest amount of energy in an ecosystem?

    <p>Tertiary Consumers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main food source for primary consumers in an ecosystem's energy flow?

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

    Which organisms play a critical role in converting solar energy into chemical energy, initiating the energy flow process in an ecosystem?

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

    Among the trophic levels mentioned, which one is at the highest level in an ecosystem?

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

    Which organisms receive only a small percentage of the energy originally captured by producers in an ecosystem?

    <p>Tertiary Consumers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During ventricular diastole, what is happening?

    <p>Both atria and ventricles are relaxed, and the semilunar valves close to prevent backflow.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What primarily influences the rate and rhythm of the heartbeat?

    <p>Oxygen levels and physical activities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the sino-atrial (SA) node in heart function?

    <p>It generates electrical impulses to cause the atria to contract.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What occurs during ventricular systole in the cardiac cycle?

    <p>The impulse from the SA node causes the ventricles to contract.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the semilunar valves during the cardiac cycle?

    <p>Prevent blood from flowing back into the atria during diastole.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of aorta in the cardiovascular system?

    <p>Pumping oxygenated blood to the body.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition is caused by obstructed coronary arteries?

    <p>Heart Attack</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens during atrial systole in the cardiac cycle?

    <p>The atria contract to force blood into the ventricles.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does hypertension differ from hypotension?

    <p>Hypertension is persistently high blood pressure, while hypotension refers to low blood pressure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key function of the ventricles during the cardiac cycle?

    <p>To contract and pump blood out of the heart.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes xerophytes like cacti in adapting to arid environments?

    <p>Thick cuticles to minimize water loss</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are decomposers like fungi and bacteria crucial in ecosystems?

    <p>To break down dead organic matter and release nutrients</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do thicket biomes primarily indicate about their environment?

    <p>Abundant water availability</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In an ecosystem, what role do scavengers like hyenas play?

    <p>Feed on leftover carcasses</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of tertiary consumers in a food chain?

    <p>To feed on primary consumers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do hydrophytes adapt to specifically in their environment?

    <p>Water-rich environments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which atmospheric process directly impacts seed and pollen dispersion?

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

    What plays a pivotal role in nutrient cycling in ecosystems?

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

    How do primary consumers like antelope contribute to the food chain?

    <p>By serving as prey for secondary consumers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What mainly influences the characteristics and biodiversity of a local environment?

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

    What is the primary distinction of ecotourism in terms of economic benefits?

    <p>It generates revenue on the basis of environmental preservation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where are open circulatory systems primarily found?

    <p>Insects and arthropods</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What makes a closed circulatory system more efficient compared to an open system?

    <p>Blood enclosed in vessels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which organism would likely benefit the most from an open circulatory system?

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

    What characterizes a closed circulatory system?

    <p>Blood enclosed within a vessel network</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a disadvantage of an open circulatory system compared to a closed system?

    <p>Lack of directional blood flow</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which circulatory system type is found in mollusks such as snails?

    <p>Open circulatory system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What phase of the cardiac cycle involves the relaxation of both atria and ventricles?

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

    What factor primarily controls the heartbeat and acts as the natural pacemaker of the heart?

    <p>SA Node</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a symptom of hypotension, indicating low blood pressure?

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

    Which condition may manifest with chest pain due to obstructed coronary arteries?

    <p>Heart Attack</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be a remedial measure for severe cardiovascular conditions besides lifestyle adjustments?

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

    Which gas is crucial for respiration in aerobic organisms and cellular processes?

    <p>Carbon Dioxide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the lithosphere provide that is essential for the nutritional needs of plants and animals?

    <p>Mineral Ions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary significance of muscular activity on the heart rate according to the text?

    <p>Raises Blood Volume</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which sphere covers the majority of the Earth's surface and is the largest habitat in the biosphere?

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

    What is the function of the semilunar valves during the cardiac cycle?

    <p>Prevent backflow into the atria</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do physical activities accelerate the heartbeat according to the text?

    <p>Activate Stretch Receptors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the specific roles or functions of an organism or species within its environment known as?

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

    What phase involves the impulse traveling from the SA node to the AV node and then the ventricles?

    <p>Ventricular Systole</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term used to describe a community of living organisms interacting with each other and their physical environment in a specific area?

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

    What is the rigid outer layer of the Earth called?

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

    What happens to the tricuspid and bicuspid valves during the Ventricular Systole phase?

    <p>Close to prevent backflow</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which gas is used by plants during photosynthesis to produce oxygen?

    <p>Carbon Dioxide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the lithosphere for habitats and terrestrial life?

    <p>Forming the crust of the Earth and providing nutrients</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What component influences weather patterns, climate, and is essential for life's metabolic processes?

    <p>Water Vapor</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What term refers to a large ecological area on Earth's surface with distinct climatic conditions and specific plant and animal species?

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

    Which characteristic is unique to the double circulatory pathway?

    <p>There is a higher pressure and faster flow of blood</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the human circulatory system, where does deoxygenated blood go after leaving the heart and before returning to it?

    <p>To the lungs for oxygenation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main limitation of the single circulatory pathway compared to the double circulatory pathway?

    <p>The pressure in the system is lower</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the cardiovascular circulatory system?

    <p>Transporting nutrients, gases, hormones, and cells throughout the body</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the double circulatory system in mammals prevent the mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood?

    <p>By having a heart with four chambers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which animal group is associated with a double circulatory system?

    <p>Mammals and birds</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the double circulatory system considered more efficient than the single circulatory system?

    <p>It allows for a higher pressure and faster blood flow</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of the separation between the pulmonary and systemic circuits in the double circulatory system?

    <p>To facilitate oxygen supply efficiency</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which feature of the double circulatory pathway best explains why it can support higher metabolic demands?

    <p>Faster blood flow and higher pressure</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the single circulatory pathway less suited for mammals and birds than the double circulatory pathway?

    <p>It cannot support high metabolic demands</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the lymphatic system?

    <p>Helping transport lymph and remove waste from tissues</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes the cardiovascular system from the lymphatic system?

    <p>The lymphatic system lacks a central pump like the heart</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component of the heart helps ensure unidirectional blood flow?

    <p>Heart valves</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where does blood go after being oxygenated in the lungs?

    <p>To the left atrium through the pulmonary veins</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do the lymph nodes play in the lymphatic system?

    <p>Filter lymph, trapping bacteria and other microorganisms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which structure prevents friction and facilitates heart movement during contraction?

    <p>The pericardium</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of the spleen in the human body?

    <p>Production and maturation of lymphocytes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which body structure aids in transporting lymph throughout the body?

    <p>Lymph vessels and ducts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of the superior and inferior vena cava in blood circulation?

    <p>Transport deoxygenated blood to the heart</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What purpose do thin ligaments serve in the heart's structure?

    <p>Support heart valves ensuring unidirectional blood flow</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes marine biomes from freshwater biomes primarily?

    <p>Salinity levels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which biome is characterized by low biodiversity, limited to low-growing plants and migratory birds and mammals like reindeer?

    <p>Desert biome</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which South African biome are species particularly adapted to fire and nutrient-poor soils?

    <p>Fynbos biome</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which terrestrial biome is most likely to support a diverse array of wildlife including large mammals and birds in regions with a warm climate and seasonal rainfall?

    <p>Savanna biome</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes wetlands within freshwater biomes, offering flood control, water filtration, and serving as biodiversity reservoirs?

    <p>Seasonal water saturation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of autotrophs in an ecosystem?

    <p>Converting solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes coral reefs within marine biomes as biodiversity hotspots?

    <p>Formation from calcium carbonate skeletons</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why do tertiary consumers gain the least amount of energy in an ecosystem?

    <p>They are at the highest trophic level, leading to significant energy loss</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

    <p>Breaking down dead organisms and returning nutrients to the soil</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which biome is found in regions with high rainfall and can vary from rainforests to temperate forests?

    <p>Forest biome</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does energy flow through trophic levels impact ecosystem efficiency?

    <p>Energy loss limits the number of trophic levels, affecting overall ecosystem productivity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do estuaries, a transitional area between freshwater and ocean saltwater, create largely due to the mixing of water sources?

    <p>Highly productive environments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the loss of energy as heat in energy flow through ecosystems?

    <p>It limits the amount of energy available to higher trophic levels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which biome, typically found in regions with moderate to high precipitation, supports various herbivores and carnivores?

    <p>Grassland biome</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What makes forests, which vary from rainforests to temperate forests, characterized as ecosystems dominated by tall trees and rich understories?

    <p>High biodiversity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do secondary consumers play in the ecosystem?

    <p>Feeding on primary consumers to obtain energy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary distinction between the Nama Karoo and the Succulent Karoo regions?

    <p>Presence of succulent vegetation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which feature characterizes the Thicket biome?

    <p>High moisture content</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main function of decomposers in the ecosystem?

    <p>Returning nutrients to the soil</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which physiographic factor influences the characteristics and biodiversity of a local environment?

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

    What distinguishes xerophytes from hydrophytes?

    <p>Ability to conserve water</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does wind impact ecosystems?

    <p>Affects seed and pollen dispersion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of energy flow in ecosystems?

    <p>Describes movement of energy through trophic levels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of nutrient cycles, which element is essential for recycling through ecosystems?

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

    What is a key feature of the broader term 'environment'?

    <p>Both biotic and abiotic components</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do primary consumers differ from tertiary consumers?

    <p>Position in the food chain</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes ecotourism from traditional tourism primarily?

    <p>Emphasis on conservation and community involvement</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

    <p>Break down dead organic material to recycle nutrients</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary economic benefit of ecotourism to local communities?

    <p>Job creation through environmental preservation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor directly impacts the types of vegetation and animal life in an ecosystem?

    <p>Soil texture and structure</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main focus of studying the physiographic factors of an ecosystem?

    <p>Assessing land layout for water flow</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an example of a tertiary consumer in an ecosystem?

    <p>Carnivores that eat herbivores</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does education play in the context of ecotourism?

    <p>Creating awareness about local cultures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are community involvement and sustainable practices essential in ecotourism?

    <p>To ensure equitable distribution of benefits and promote conservation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do climatic factors contribute to the ecosystem?

    <p>By affecting the physical characteristics of the ecosystem</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main goal of investigative studies in local ecosystems?

    <p>To preserve biodiversity and understand ecosystem dynamics</p> Signup and view all the answers

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