Ecology and Human Impact Review

Define ecology and explain why it is important to study ecological systems.

Describe the difference between biotic and abiotic factors in an ecosystem.

Interpret the food web below. Explain how one other organism on this food web be affected if the mouse population decreased drastically?

Explain how energy flows through an ecosystem, starting with the sun.

Define the term "biomass" and explain its significance in an ecosystem.

Describe the water cycle and its importance to living organisms.

Explain the carbon cycle and how it is related to energy flow in an ecosystem.

Define the term "carrying capacity" and explain how it can affect a population.

What is mutualism? Provide an example of a mutualistic relationship.

Describe a predator-prey relationship and how it can affect the population dynamics of both species.

What is commensalism? Give an example of a commensal relationship.

Explain parasitism and how it differs from other symbiotic relationships. Provide an example.

What is biodiversity and why is it important to an ecosystem?

Describe the process of ecological succession and the difference between primary and secondary succession.

What are invasive species and how can they impact an ecosystem?

Explain the concept of a keystone species and give an example.

Describe how human activities can lead to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity.

What is the greenhouse effect and how does it relate to global climate change?

Explain the concept of an ecological footprint and how it can be reduced.

What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable resources?

Explain how natural selection can lead to evolution within a population.

Define Ecological Succession and explain how the image below shows how the process works.

Discuss the consequences of climate change on polar and glacier ecosystems.