Environmental science & ecology: Understand our planet’s ecosystems

Questions

1. What is the primary source of energy that drives most ecosystems on Earth?
2. Define biodiversity and explain why it is important for ecosystem stability.
3. Name three major greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming.
4. What is the main purpose of a wetland in an ecosystem?
5. Which layer of the atmosphere contains the ozone layer that protects life on Earth from ultraviolet radiation?
6. What is the term for the process by which plants convert carbon dioxide into oxygen using sunlight?
7. Identify one major human activity that has led to increased levels of air pollution.
8. What is the concept of “carrying capacity” in ecology?
9. Name two renewable energy sources that can help reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
10. Why is soil conservation important for sustainable agriculture?

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Answers

1. The primary source of energy that drives most ecosystems is the Sun.
2. Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms within a given ecosystem, and it is important because it contributes to ecosystem resilience, productivity, and stability.
3. The three major greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O).
4. Wetlands serve as natural filters for water, provide habitat for diverse species, and help in flood control.
5. The ozone layer is located in the stratosphere.
6. The process is photosynthesis.
7. Burning fossil fuels (such as coal, oil, and natural gas) is a major human activity that increases air pollution.
8. Carrying capacity is the maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can sustainably support.
9. Solar energy and wind energy are two renewable sources that help reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
10. Soil conservation is important to prevent erosion, maintain soil fertility, and ensure sustainable crop production.