Abiotic Structural Components
|
|
- Brittany Cox
- 6 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 1 Module # 10 Component # 2 Abiotic Structural Components Introduction The abiotic aspects of the ecosystem are often neglected in ecological studies. Therefore, this entire component will be devoted to this topic which discusses some of the more important abiotic factors. The amount of detail on each factor is limited, as only a basic understanding of these factors is required. The origins of the factors and some of the influences of each factor on the ecosystem will be discussed.
2 2 Climatic Factors Temperature Temperature is influenced by the amount of insolation (incoming solar radiation) that a particular area receives from the sun. This is noted when the average temperatures of the poles and the equator are compared. Temperature plays an important role in stimulating germination in certain plants. As the temperature starts to increase at the beginning of spring, germination is triggered. Temperature will also influence the behaviour of some animals. In deserts, many animals are inclined to burrow into the soil or lie in the shade of rocks during the heat of the day. Low temperatures will cause the process of photosynthesis to cease in plants and the plants will become dormant. The influence of low temperatures also causes animals in cold regions to go into hibernation. Ectothermic (cold blooded) animals such as reptiles cannot regulate their own body temperature and are dependent on the sun s energy. This is seen when a lizard orientates its body to the sun on cold mornings, in order to absorb the maximum amount of the sun s energy. Rainfall Rainfall is based on the climate that occurs in an area. The amount of precipitation that occurs on the earth will vary substantially from region to region. High rainfall in an area will promote leaching of nutrients from the soil as the water enters the soil and passes through it taking nutrients with it. This is simply in response to gravity. The extremes of rainfall (drought and floods) play an important role in the ecosystem. Droughts are a means of population regulation as animal numbers may drop during a drought. Floods assist in the clearing away of deposited sediments, thereby improving the quality of water in a river. Rainfall is essential in the stimulation of growth in plants. With a high rainfall at the beginning of the plants growing season, plants will experience an accelerated growth rate. The structure of vegetation will depend heavily on the quantities of rainfall an area receives. This is noted if the vegetation of a desert and a tropical forest are compared (i.e. a greater biomass in the tropical forest due to a higher rainfall).
3 3 Air currents and pressure These factors are influenced by the amount of localised heating that occurs in a particular area. With intense heating of the earth s surface, the air adjacent to the surface becomes heated. The air will rise causing a drop in air pressure. Once the heated air rises it eventually cools at a higher altitude and will start to descend. This will cause the air pressure to increase. Where a pressure gradient (or difference in air pressure between two points) exists, the air will move from an area of higher pressure to an area of lower pressure. This moving air is referred to as wind. Wind plays an important role in the movement of moist air which can lead to precipitation. Soil erosion may be caused by wind. Wind is an important means of seed dispersal and as a pollinating vector as found with grasses. As examined in a previous Module (# 2) wind is also required for the transmission of pheromones. Humidity Humidity is a factor which depends on the temperature and moisture content of a body of air. The amount of water in the atmosphere may vary depending on the temperature of the body of air. If air temperature increases, the amount of water that the air can hold will also increase. If the temperature of the air decreases, the amount of water held in the body of air will decrease as well. If the humidity of the air is high (i.e. there is a high concentration of water in the air) this will affect the process of transpiration in plants. If the atmosphere is moist, transpiration will slow down. A high humidity will cause terrestrial animals to become lethargic. Atmospheric gases These are essential for the existence of living organisms on the earth. Oxygen makes up about 21 % of the atmosphere and is used by animals and plants during the process of respiration. Carbon dioxide (less than 0.4% of the atmosphere) is a product of respiration and is consumed by plants during the process of photosynthesis. The bulk of the atmosphere (78%) consists of the gas nitrogen. It is essential in the formation of proteins. For this gas to be used, however, it must be fixed (changed into a useable form) by either nitrogen fixing bacteria or lightning.
4 4 Solar radiation and light This obviously originates from the sun. The effect of solar radiation on temperature has been discussed above. Light is required for the process of photosynthesis in plants. Only about 0.02% of light reaching the earth is used in photosynthesis. Some plants may prefer shady conditions whilst others prefer well-lit conditions. Photoperiodism is the reaction of plants to a light source. This entails a hormonal reaction by plants to grow towards the light source. Certain nocturnal animals have specific adaptations (e.g. large eyes) which enable the animal to function in low light conditions. Some nocturnal predators have a tapetum in their eyes, which permits the maximum use of limited light sources. It does this by collecting and reflecting the available light around the cornea. The tapetum also causes the reflection of light from their eyes. Most people will have seen this phenomenon when looking into a cat s or dog s eyes at night.
5 5 Edaphic Factors Geological parent material This forms the basis of the lithosphere. The different rock types found on the earth s surface are derived from the lithosphere. Rocks will influence the shape of the land by, for example giving rise to plains or hills. These rocks will also affect the soil types originating from the lithosphere. The nutrients found in the soils will be directly influenced by the rock type from which it originates. The texture of the soil will be directly linked to the rock type from which it originates. Sandy soil, for example, will be produced from the weathering of granite. Rocky outcrops create habitats for animals such as the rock hyrax.
6 6 Soils Although all soils may look similar they are very different with different characteristics. These characteristics include amongst others the texture, fertility, depth of soil and humus content. Soil texture, for example, will influence the ability of the soil to retain water for use by plants; sandy soils will retain water less effectively than clay soils. The depth of the soil may, for example, be influenced by a layer of impermeable clay. This will prevent plant roots from extending too deep into the soil and the plants could be dwarfed. The vegetation found growing in soils will also differ from area to area. Saline soils contain quantities of salt and specific species of plants that are adapted to these conditions grow on these soils. Nutrients Nutrients are essential for the growth of plants and animals. The biggest reservoir of nutrients is the soil. Some nutrients are required in large quantities such as nitrogen. Nitrogen is essential to produce proteins in plant and animal bodies. Magnesium is another essential nutrient as it forms an important role as a central atom in the chlorophyll molecule used in the process of photosynthesis. Although minerals are abundant in the soil, plants and animals do not have unlimited access to them. Therefore, these nutrients are cycled in the ecosystem and can be used repeatedly.
7 7 Water Water is the single most important factor governing all life on Earth. In terms of plant life, the amount and quality of water greatly influences which type of plant will be able to grow in any specific area. Plants that grow in deserts and can live with limited water resources are called xerophytes. These plants can store water and have adaptations that prevent excessive loss of water such as a waxy cuticle on their leaves. Cacti are a good example. Plants that can live in very wet conditions are called hydrophytes. These are found growing in shallow pans. They are adapted to this way of life as they have very long roots for attachment to the bottom sediment and often have flotation devices to give them buoyancy. E.g. Mangroves. Mesophytes are plants that require moderate amounts of water; if exposed to excessive or greatly reduced amounts of water, mesophytes would not survive. Halophytes are plants that have adapted to grow specifically in saline (salty) areas. Estuarine grasses are a good example Those who have completed the Botany Module will recall that leaf size is an indication that a plant is adapted to dry conditions. Many plants have compound leaves thereby reducing the leaf s surface area and the amount of water being transpired from the plant. Deciduous plants shed their leaves before the dry season (in a process known as abscission), thereby preventing loss of moisture when the rains have ceased. However, the best examples of adaptations for reducing water loss are plants that exhibit thorns.
8 8 Thorns are simply modified leaves. They contain much the same internal structure as normal leaves but may have the ability to close their stomata (holes in the leaves / thorns that allow the passage of water and gases). Thorns are also covered by an impermeable membrane that does not allow for water loss. When discussing animal adaptations for water conservation, there are several large texts on the subject mainly falling under the topic of applied animal physiology. This course does not to go into any detail here except for perhaps one example. Desert rodents can excrete a highly-concentrated urine, which means that harmful waste products are removed from the rodent s body whilst valuable water is conserved. This topic will be explored in an upcoming course.
9 9 Physiographic Factors Topography This describes the shape or the relief in an area. For example, the topography could be flat plains or undulating hills. The geological parent material and rate of weathering are two factors that contribute to the topography of an area. Topography will influence the depth of soils. On a gently sloping area the deeper soils are likely to be at the base of the slope and the shallow soils will be found along the slope. The possibility of leaching will be increased on sloping ground and may be reduced on level ground. Aspect Aspect is the direction in which a slope is facing. In the southern hemisphere, the aspect of hills that run in an east-west direction will be exposed to totally different conditions. The north facing slopes will receive more direct light and are likely to be warmer. The south facing slopes on the other hand will be in shade longer and will be cooler and receive less light. A difference in plant species growing on these slopes will be seen. On the Highveld Protea species are mostly found on the south facing slopes. The amount of rainfall on these slopes may also vary if there is a rain-shadow caused by a high ridge, where one slope receives more rain than the other slope. Altitude Altitude is the height above sea level. A pronounced temperature difference can be noted as a difference in altitude occurs. The Highveld and Lowveld are good examples of this. The Highveld (Johannesburg / Pretoria region) experiences cold winters and warm summers, whilst the Lowveld (Kruger National Park region) has relatively mild winters and hot summers. This is due to the comparative densities of air at these two altitudes. The denser air at a lower altitude traps the heat being radiated from the earth, making the Lowveld warmer. At a higher altitude, relatively less dense air is found with a reduction in the amount of heat being trapped. Please remember that there are factors other than altitude that also play a role in influencing the temperature differences between these two regions. Latitude This factor will influence the temperatures at different places on the earth s surface. The angle at which the sun s rays strike the earth s surface will be different at the equator and the poles. At the equator, a relatively small area of earth s surface is heated compared to the same amount of heat reaching the poles, where a greater surface area has to be heated by the same amount of the sun s energy. Therefore, there is a marked difference in temperatures at these two regions. This obviously will affect the plant and animal life found there.
10 10 Fire Fire has been included as an abiotic factor as it plays a pronounced role in the ecosystem. Fire may occur naturally or it may be used by man as a management tool or even originate accidentally. Lightning is the cause of most natural fires. Fire plays a role in nature controlling the densities of some plants and may stimulate the growth of plants. Fire controls the densities of some animal species, such as slow moving reptiles, burrowing animals and ground birds. The effects of fire and specifically the issue of using fire deliberately in a savannah ecosystem are explored in Module # 11 Principles of Habitat Management
Ecosystem: Ecology Abiotic Biotic Micro-organism Producers Consumers Photosynthesis Decomposers herbivores
Ecosystem Ecosystem: Ecology Abiotic Biotic Micro-organism Producers Consumers Photosynthesis Decomposers herbivores Carnivores Omnivores Ectodermic Endothermic Transpiration Terrestrial Aquatic Xerophytes
More informationThermal / Solar. When air is warmed it... Rises. Solar Energy. Evaporation. Condensation Forms Clouds
Thermal / Solar Light from the Sun is transformed into what type of energy when it hits Earth's surface? Rises When air is warmed it... Solar Energy Water moves through the water cycle using what type
More informationLecture 24 Plant Ecology
Lecture 24 Plant Ecology Understanding the spatial pattern of plant diversity Ecology: interaction of organisms with their physical environment and with one another 1 Such interactions occur on multiple
More informationSoft stems. Wind pollinated
Plant Adaptations The temperature in grassland or the prairies are windy, have hot summers and cold winters. Rainfall is uncertain and in the range of about 25-27 cm per year, and drought is common. The
More informationChapter 02 Life on Land. Multiple Choice Questions
Ecology: Concepts and Applications 7th Edition Test Bank Molles Download link all chapters TEST BANK for Ecology: Concepts and Applications 7th Edition by Manuel Molles https://testbankreal.com/download/ecology-concepts-applications-7thedition-test-bank-molles/
More informationInterrelationships. 1. Temperature Wind Fire Rainfall Soil Type Floods Sunlight Altitude Earthquake
Interrelationships Abiotic Factors A. A Partial List 1. Temperature Wind Fire Rainfall Soil Type Floods Sunlight Altitude Earthquake B. Aquatic Adaptations 1. Pumping salt out a. Salt water fish 2. Pumping
More informationBiosphere. All living things, plants, animals, (even you!) are part of the zone of the earth called the biosphere.
Unit 1 Study Guide Earth s Spheres Biosphere All living things, plants, animals, (even you!) are part of the zone of the earth called the biosphere. Hydrosphere Water covers ¾ of the earth, made up mostly
More informationIntroduction. Ecology is the scientific study of the interactions between organisms and their environment.
Introduction Ecology is the scientific study of the interactions between organisms and their environment. 1. The interactions between organisms and their environments determine the distribution and abundance
More information5 th Grade Ecosystems Mini Assessment Name # Date. Name # Date
An ecosystem is a community of organisms and their interaction with their environment. (abiotic, biotic, niche, habitat, population, community)- 1. Which effect does a decrease in sunlight have on a pond
More informationClimate and Biomes. Adapted by T.Brunetto from: Developed by Steven Taylor Wichmanowski based in part on Pearson Environmental Science by Jay Withgott
Climate and Biomes Adapted by T.Brunetto from: Developed by Steven Taylor Wichmanowski based in part on Pearson Environmental Science by Jay Withgott Remember that an ecosystem consists of all the biotic
More informationBiogeographic Processes
Biogeographic Processes Energy and Matter Flow in Ecosystems Ecological Biogeography Ecological Succession Historical Biogeography Biogeographic Processes Biogeography examines the distribution of plants
More informationOur Living Planet. Chapter 15
Our Living Planet Chapter 15 Learning Goals I can describe the Earth s climate and how we are affected by the sun. I can describe what causes different climate zones. I can describe what makes up an organisms
More informationClimate and the Atmosphere
Climate and Biomes Climate Objectives: Understand how weather is affected by: 1. Variations in the amount of incoming solar radiation 2. The earth s annual path around the sun 3. The earth s daily rotation
More informationGEOGRAPHY EYA NOTES. Weather. atmosphere. Weather and climate
GEOGRAPHY EYA NOTES Weather and climate Weather The condition of the atmosphere at a specific place over a relatively short period of time Climate The atmospheric conditions of a specific place over a
More informationSoil Formation. Lesson Plan: NRES B2-4
Soil Formation Lesson Plan: NRES B2-4 1 Anticipated Problems 1. What are five different factors that affect soil formation? 2. What are some different types of parent material that affect soils? 3. What
More informationUNIT 12: THE HYDROLOGIC CYCLE
UNIT 12: THE HYDROLOGIC CYCLE After Unit 12 you should be able to: o Effectively use the charts Average Chemical Composition of Earth s Crust, Hydrosphere and Troposphere, Selected Properties of Earth
More informationBIOSPHERE KEY QUESTION 1. IV. BIOSPHERE: The living organisms that have established themselves in the
BIOSPHERE KEY QUESTION 1 IV. BIOSPHERE: The living organisms that have established themselves in the other three spheres A. In this module, two contrasting ecosystems should be studied to a greater depth
More informationTUNDRA. Column 1 biome name Column 2 biome description Column 3 examples of plant adaptations
Biome Cards (pp. 1 of 7) Cut out each biome card and divide each card into three sections. Place all sections in a plastic storage bag. Have one bag for every two students. Column 1 biome name Column 2
More informationBio 112 Lecture Exam 1 Study Guide
Bio 112 Lecture Exam 1 Study Guide Emphasis will be placed on the following lecture topics: A. The scientific method and statistical analysis Know the steps in the scientific method Understand what a controlled
More informationBiosphere Organization
Biosphere Organization What is a biome? Biomes refer to a large region or area characterized by the following: 1. A particular climate pattern of the annual temperature and precipitation distribution,
More informationCHAPTER 6 & 7 VOCABULARY
CHAPTER 6 & 7 VOCABULARY 1. Biome 2. Climate 3. Latitude 4. Altitude 5. Emergent layer 6. Epiphyte 7. Understory 8. Permafrost 9. Wetland 10.Plankton 11.Nekton 12.Benthos 13.Littoral zone 14.Benthic zone
More information1 The Cycles of Matter
CHAPTER 19 1 The Cycles of Matter SECTION Cycles in Nature BEFORE YOU READ After you read this section, you should be able to answer these questions: Why does matter need to be recycled? How are water,
More information10/6/ th Grade Ecology and the Environment. Chapter 2: Ecosystems and Biomes
7 th Grade Ecology and the Environment Chapter 2: Ecosystems and Biomes Lesson 1 (Energy Flow in Ecosystems) Each organism in an ecosystem fills an energy role. Producer an organism that can make its own
More informationTAKE A LOOK 3. Complete Carbon dioxide in the air is used for. The Cycles of Matter continued
CHAPTER 2 1 The Cycles of Matter SECTION Cycles in Nature BEFORE YOU READ After you read this section, you should be able to answer these questions: Why does matter need to be recycled? How are water,
More informationChapter 52 An Introduction to Ecology and the Biosphere
Chapter 52 An Introduction to Ecology and the Biosphere Ecology The study of the interactions between organisms and their environment. Ecology Integrates all areas of biological research and informs environmental
More informationThe Atmosphere. Characteristics of the Atmosphere. Section 23.1 Objectives. Chapter 23. Chapter 23 Modern Earth Science. Section 1
The Atmosphere Chapter 23 Modern Earth Science Characteristics of the Atmosphere Chapter 23 Section 1 Section 23.1 Objectives Describe the composition of Earth s atmosphere. Explain how two types of barometers
More informationChapter 2: Physical Geography
Chapter 2: Physical Geography Pg. 39-68 Learning Goals for Chp2: q q q q q Explain how the Earth moves in space and why seasons change. Outline the factors that influence climate and recognize different
More informationGame Ranging / Field Guiding Course. Ecosystem Dynamics. Functional Aspects of the Ecosystem
1 Module # 10 Component # 8 Functional Aspects of the Ecosystem The functional aspects of the ecosystem deal with the energy flow within the ecosystem, limiting factors and the cycling of materials around
More informationCH. 3: Climate and Vegetation
CH. 3: Climate and Vegetation GROUP WORK RUBRIC Score of 50 (5): Superior - 100% A 5 is superior work, and has completed all requirements of the assignments, it is in order and its presentation is almost
More informationName Hour. Section 4-1 The Role of Climate (pages 87-89) What Is Climate? (page 87) 1. How is weather different from climate?
Name Hour Section 4-1 The Role of Climate (pages 87-89) What Is Climate? (page 87) 1. How is weather different from climate? 2. What factors cause climate? The Greenhouse Effect (page 87) 3. Circle the
More information3 Temperate and Polar Zones
CHAPTER 3 3 Temperate and Polar Zones SECTION Climate BEFORE YOU READ After you read this section, you should be able to answer these questions: What biomes are found in the temperate zone? What biomes
More informationOur Environment Class 7 Questions on Give Reasons for quick revision for Competitive Exams
Questions on Give reasons at the end of each Chapter Chapter 1 1. Man modifies his environment Man has tried to make life more comfortable for his own species on a continuous basis. For this he has learnt
More informationEnergy Systems, Structures and Processes Essential Standard: Analyze patterns of global climate change over time Learning Objective: Differentiate
Energy Systems, Structures and Processes Essential Standard: Analyze patterns of global climate change over time Learning Objective: Differentiate between weather and climate Global Climate Focus Question
More informationClimate Change and Biomes
Climate Change and Biomes Key Concepts: Greenhouse Gas WHAT YOU WILL LEARN Biome Climate zone Greenhouse gases 1. You will learn the difference between weather and climate. 2. You will analyze how climate
More information1 What Is Climate? TAKE A LOOK 2. Explain Why do areas near the equator tend to have high temperatures?
CHAPTER 17 1 What Is Climate? SECTION Climate BEFORE YOU READ After you read this section, you should be able to answer these questions: What is climate? What factors affect climate? How do climates differ
More informationUnit 3 Review Guide: Atmosphere
Unit 3 Review Guide: Atmosphere Atmosphere: A thin layer of gases that forms a protective covering around the Earth. Photosynthesis: Process where plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Trace
More informationEarth systems the big idea guiding questions Chapter 1 & 2 Earth and Earth Systems review notes are in purple
Earth systems the big idea guiding questions Chapter 1 & 2 Earth and Earth Systems review notes are in purple How can you describe Earth? What are the composition and the structure of the atmosphere? How
More informationDay 1 of Global Warming. Copyright 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Pearson Benjamin Cummings
Day 1 of Global Warming Copyright 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Pearson Benjamin Cummings The Atmosphere Atmosphere = the thin layer (1/100 th of Earth s diameter) of gases that surrounds
More informationBiogeography. Fig. 12-6a, p. 276
Biogeography Fig. 12-6a, p. 276 Biogeographic Processes Energy and Matter Flow in Ecosystems Ecological Biogeography Ecological Succession Historical Biogeography Biogeographic Processes Biogeography examines
More informationEcosystems Chapter 4. What is an Ecosystem? Section 4-1
Ecosystems Chapter 4 What is an Ecosystem? Section 4-1 Ecosystems Key Idea: An ecosystem includes a community of organisms and their physical environment. A community is a group of various species that
More informationTable of Contents. Chapter: Atmosphere. Section 1: Earth's Atmosphere. Section 2: Energy Transfer in the Atmosphere. Section 3: Air Movement
Table of Contents Chapter: Atmosphere Section 1: Earth's Atmosphere Section 2: Energy Transfer in the Atmosphere Section 3: Air Movement Table of Contents Chapter: Atmosphere Section 2: Energy Transfer
More informationThe Atmosphere - Chapter Characteristics of the Atmosphere
Section Objectives Describe the composition of Earth s atmosphere. Explain how two types of barometers work. Identify the layers of the atmosphere. Identify two effects of air pollution. The Atmosphere
More informationThe Atmosphere of Earth
The Atmosphere of Earth The probability of a storm can be predicted, but nothing can be done to stop or slow a storm. Understanding the atmosphere may help in predicting weather changes, but it is doubtful
More information4 Changes in Climate. TAKE A LOOK 2. Explain Why is more land exposed during glacial periods than at other times?
Name Class CHAPTER 3 Date Climate 4 Changes in Climate SECTION National Science Education Standards BEFORE YOU READ After you read this section, you should be able to answer these questions: ES 1k, 2a
More informationDesert Patterns. Plants Growth and reproduction Water loss prevention Defenses. Animals Growth and reproduction Water loss prevention Defenses
Desert Patterns Plants Growth and reproduction Water loss prevention Defenses Animals Growth and reproduction Water loss prevention Defenses Abiotic Features Introduction A major emphasis in ecology is
More information1 Earth s Oceans. TAKE A LOOK 2. Identify What are the five main oceans?
CHAPTER 13 1 Earth s Oceans SECTION Exploring the Oceans BEFORE YOU READ After you read this section, you should be able to answer these questions: What affects the salinity of ocean water? What affects
More informationClimax Vegetation is the natural vegetation in the last possible stage of vegetation development. Climax vegetation is stable and in balance with the
Climax Vegetation is the natural vegetation in the last possible stage of vegetation development. Climax vegetation is stable and in balance with the climatic conditions. It should change very little if
More informationSpheres of Life. Ecology. Chapter 52. Impact of Ecology as a Science. Ecology. Biotic Factors Competitors Predators / Parasites Food sources
"Look again at that dot... That's here. That's home. That's us. On it everyone you love, everyone you know, everyone you ever heard of, every human being who ever was, lived out their lives. Ecology Chapter
More informationLesson Overview 4.4 Biomes
Lesson Overview 4.4 Biomes THINK ABOUT IT Why does the character of biological communities vary from one place to another? Why, for example, do temperate rain forests grow in the Pacific Northwest while
More informationTable of Contents. Chapter: Atmosphere. Section 1: Earth's Atmosphere. Section 2: Energy Transfer in the Atmosphere. Section 3: Air Movement
Table of Contents Chapter: Atmosphere Section 1: Earth's Atmosphere Section 2: Energy Transfer in the Atmosphere Section 3: Air Movement Table of Contents Chapter 4: Atmosphere Section 1: Earth's Atmosphere
More informationLesson Overview. Climate. Lesson Overview. 4.1 Climate
Lesson Overview 4.1 THINK ABOUT IT When you think about climate, you might think of dramatic headlines: Hurricane Katrina floods New Orleans! or Drought parches the Southeast! But big storms and seasonal
More informationOur Planet Earth. I nteractions of Earth Systems
CHAPTER 3 LESSON 2 Our Planet Earth I nteractions of Earth Systems Key Concepts How does the water cycle show interactions of Earth systems? How does weather show interactions of Earth systems? How does
More informationUNIT 3. World Ecosystems
UNIT 3 World Ecosystems Description and Review World Geography 3202 World Ecosystems Climax Vegetation Climax Vegetation is the natural vegetation in the last possible stage of vegetation development.
More informationNOTES: CH 4 Ecosystems & Communities
NOTES: CH 4 Ecosystems & Communities 4.1 - Weather & Climate: WEATHER = day-to-day conditions of Earth s atmosphere CLIMATE= refers to average conditions over long periods; defined by year-afteryear patterns
More informationWhat is Climate? Understanding and predicting climatic changes are the basic goals of climatology.
What is Climate? Understanding and predicting climatic changes are the basic goals of climatology. Climatology is the study of Earth s climate and the factors that affect past, present, and future climatic
More informationwater cycle evaporation condensation the process where water vapor the cycle in which Earth's water moves through the environment
cycle a series of events that happen over and over water cycle evaporation the cycle in which Earth's water moves through the environment process when the heat of the sun changes water on Earth s surface
More informationBright blue marble floating in space. Biomes & Ecology
Bright blue marble floating in space Biomes & Ecology Chapter 50 Spheres of life Molecules Cells (Tissues Organ Organ systems) Organisms Populations Community all the organisms of all the species that
More information1 What Is Climate? TAKE A LOOK 2. Explain Why do areas near the equator tend to have high temperatures?
CHAPTER 17 1 What Is Climate? SECTION Climate BEFORE YOU READ After you read this section, you should be able to answer these questions: What is climate? What factors affect climate? How do climates differ
More informationUnit 2 Meteorology Test **Please do not write on this test** 5. El Nino & La Nina 6. Photosynthesis 7. Coriolis Effect 8.
Matching (2 points each) 1. weather 2. climate 3. Greenhouse Effect 4. Convection Unit 2 Meteorology Test **Please do not write on this test** 5. El Nino & La Nina 6. Photosynthesis 7. Coriolis Effect
More informationA) usually less B) dark colored and rough D) light colored with a smooth surface A) transparency of the atmosphere D) rough, black surface
1. Base your answer to the following question on the diagram below which shows two identical houses, A and B, in a city in North Carolina. One house was built on the east side of a factory, and the other
More informationClimates of Earth. Lesson Outline LESSON 1. A. What is climate? 1. is the long-term average weather conditions that occur in a particular region.
Lesson Outline LESSON 1 A. What is climate? 1. is the long-term average weather conditions that occur in a particular region. 2. Climate depends on how average weather conditions throughout the year. B.
More information60 N 30 N. Equator 30 S 60 S
60 N 30 N Equator 30 S 60 S Where do you think each plant or animal lives? Sort the cards to determine which plants and animals could live together in a similar climate. Be prepared to discuss why you
More informationHolt Environmental Science. Section 3 Grassland, Desert and Tundra Biomes
Holt Environmental Science Section 3 Grassland, Desert and Tundra Biomes Objectives Describe the difference between tropical and temperate grasslands. Describe the climate in a chaparral biome. Describe
More informationnetw rks Guided Reading Activity Essential Question: How does geography influence the way people live? Earth's Physical Geography
Guided Reading Activity Lesson 1 Earth and the Sun Essential Question: How does geography influence the way people live? Looking at Earth Directions: What are the layers that make up Earth? Use your textbook
More information25-3 Plant Adaptations Slide 2 of 29
2 of 29 Aquatic Plants How are plants adapted to different environments? 3 of 29 Aquatic Plants Aquatic Plants To take in sufficient oxygen, many aquatic plants have tissues with large air-filled spaces
More informationPhysiological Ecology. Physiological Ecology. Physiological Ecology. Nutrient and Energy Transfer. Introduction to Ecology
Physiological Ecology Outline Introduction to Ecology Evolution and Natural Selection Physiological Ecology Behavioural Ecology Physiological Ecology study of species needs and tolerances that determine
More informationThe Desert Biome Review
NAME DATE The Desert Biome Review 1) Which best describes the climate in the desert? a) a warm climate c) a hot climate b) a dry climate d) a windy climate 2) What kind of soil is found in the desert?
More informationaccording to and water. High atmospheric pressure - Cold dry air is other air so it remains close to the earth, giving weather.
EARTH'S ATMOSPHERE Composition of the atmosphere - Earth's atmosphere consists of nitrogen ( %), oxygen ( %), small amounts of carbon dioxide, methane, argon, krypton, ozone, neon and other gases such
More informationClimate versus Weather
Climate versus Weather What is climate? Climate is the average weather usually taken over a 30-year time period for a particular region and time period. Climate is not the same as weather, but rather,
More informationUnit 4: Terrestrial ecosystems and resources
Unit 4: Terrestrial ecosystems and resources Chapter 5: Climate and terrestrial biodiversity > Climate > Terrestrial Ecosystems Chapter 10: Sustaining biodiversity (ecosystem approach) Chapter 11: Sustaining
More informationSection 4 Professor Donald McFarlane
Carbon cycle Present in atmosphere in low concentrations Autotrophs incorporate it into organic matter via photosynthesis Section 4 Professor Donald McFarlane Lecture 23 and Climate Carbon Cycle Respiration
More informationAP Biology Transpiration and Stomata
AP Biology Transpiration and Stomata Living things must exchange matter with the environment to survive, Example: Gas Exchange in Plants photosynthesis cellular respiration 1. During which hours does a
More informationThe Atmosphere Made up of mainly two gases: Nitrogen 78% Oxygen 21% Trace Gases 1%
The Atmosphere 18.1 The Atmosphere Made up of mainly two gases: Nitrogen 78% Oxygen 21% Trace Gases 1% Layers of the Atmosphere made made up of 5 layers: Troposphere Stratosphere Mesosphere Ionosphere
More informationRocks and Weathering
Rocks and Weathering The Effects of Weathering The process of mountain building thrusts rock up to Earth s surface. Weathering is the process that breaks down rock and other substances at Earth s surface.
More informationEarth s Major Terrerstrial Biomes. *Wetlands (found all over Earth)
Biomes Biome: the major types of terrestrial ecosystems determined primarily by climate 2 main factors: Depends on ; proximity to ocean; and air and ocean circulation patterns Similar traits of plants
More information16 Global Climate. Learning Goals. Summary. After studying this chapter, students should be able to:
16 Global Climate Learning Goals After studying this chapter, students should be able to: 1. associate the world s six major vegetation biomes to climate (pp. 406 408); 2. describe methods for classifying
More informationBiosphere Biome Ecosystem Community Population Organism
Ecology ecology - The study of living things and how they relate to their environment Levels of Organization in Ecology organism lowest level one living thing population collection of organisms of the
More informationcycle water cycle evaporation condensation the process where water vapor a series of events that happen over and over
cycle a series of events that happen over and over water cycle evaporation the cycle in which Earth's water moves through the environment process when the heat of the sun changes water on Earth s surface
More informationHow does the greenhouse effect maintain the biosphere s temperature range? What are Earth s three main climate zones?
Section 4 1 The Role of Climate (pages 87 89) Key Concepts How does the greenhouse effect maintain the biosphere s temperature range? What are Earth s three main climate zones? What Is Climate? (page 87)
More informationName Hour. Chapter 4 Review
Name Hour Chapter 4 Review 1. The average, year-after-year conditions of temperature and precipitation within a particular region are its weather. climate. greenhouse effect. d. biotic factors. 2. The
More informationThe Transfer of Heat
The Transfer of Heat Outcomes: S2-4-03 Explain effects of heat transfer within the atmosphere and hydrosphere on the development and movement of wind and ocean currents. Coriolis Effect In our ecology
More informationClimate vs. Weather. Weather: Short term state of the atmosphere. Climate: The average weather conditions in an area over a long period of time
Weather and Climate Climate vs. Weather Weather: Short term state of the atmosphere. Temperature, humidity, cloud cover, precipitation, winds, visibility, air pressure, air pollution, etc Climate: The
More information1 What Is Climate? TAKE A LOOK 2. Explain Why do areas near the equator tend to have high temperatures?
CHAPTER 3 1 What Is Climate? SECTION Climate BEFORE YOU READ After you read this section, you should be able to answer these questions: What is climate? What factors affect climate? How do climates differ
More informationStandard 3: Students will understand the atmospheric processes that support life and cause weather and climate.
Course: 9 th Grade Earth Systems Science Standard 3: Students will understand the atmospheric processes that support life and cause weather and climate. Instructions: In the space provided, write the letter
More informationScience 1206 Chapter 1 - Inquiring about Weather
Science 1206 Chapter 1 - Inquiring about Weather 1.1 - The Atmosphere: Energy Transfer and Properties (pp. 10-25) Weather and the Atmosphere weather the physical conditions of the atmosphere at a specific
More informationWeather & Ocean Currents
Weather & Ocean Currents Earth is heated unevenly Causes: Earth is round Earth is tilted on an axis Earth s orbit is eliptical Effects: Convection = vertical circular currents caused by temperature differences
More informationDevelopment of the Global Environment
Development of the Global Environment G302: Spring 2004 A course focused on exploration of changes in the Earth system through geological history Simon C. Brassell Geological Sciences simon@indiana.edu
More informationChapter 3 Packet. and causes seasons Earth tilted at 23.5 / 365 1/4 days = one year or revolution
Name Chapter 3 Packet Sequence Section 1 Seasons and Weather : and causes seasons Earth tilted at 23.5 / 365 1/4 days = one year or revolution solstice - begins summer in N. hemisphere, longest day winter
More informationBiomes. Chapter 4.4. Chapter 4.4
Biomes Chapter 4.4 Chapter 4.4 What is a biome? Biomes are described in terms of abiotic factors and biotic factors. Each biome is associated with seasonal patterns of temperature and precipitation. Major
More information1 (a) carbon dioxide / CO 2 ; (aerobic) respiration ; (simple) diffusion ; [3] A excretion I gas exchange
1 (a) carbon dioxide / CO 2 ; (aerobic) respiration ; (simple) diffusion ; [] A excretion I gas exchange (b) water enters by osmosis ; down a water potential gradient / high(er) to low(er) water potential
More informationChapter 8. Biogeographic Processes. Upon completion of this chapter the student will be able to:
Chapter 8 Biogeographic Processes Chapter Objectives Upon completion of this chapter the student will be able to: 1. Define the terms ecosystem, habitat, ecological niche, and community. 2. Outline how
More informationBiomes. Lesson Overview. Lesson Overview. 4.4 Biomes
Lesson Overview 4.4 THINK ABOUT IT Why does the character of biological communities vary from one place to another? Why, for example, do temperate rain forests grow in the Pacific Northwest while areas
More informationChapter 4 Lesson 1: Describing Earth s Atmosphere
Chapter 4 Lesson 1: Describing Earth s Atmosphere Vocabulary Importance of Earth s Atmosphere The atmosphere is a thin layer of gases surrounding Earth. o Contains the oxygen and water needed for life.
More information1.3 What are the needs of Organisms? *Autotrophs: organisms that can (i.e. plants) *Heterotrophs: organisms that (i.e. humans)
1.3 What are the needs of Organisms? 5 Things Living Organisms Need 1- -Organisms get energy from in order to. *Autotrophs: organisms that can (i.e. plants) *Heterotrophs: organisms that (i.e. humans)
More informationBiomes Section 2. Chapter 6: Biomes Section 2: Forest Biomes DAY ONE
Chapter 6: Biomes Section 2: Forest Biomes DAY ONE Of all the biomes in the world, forest biomes are the most widespread and the most diverse. The large trees of forests need a lot of water, so forests
More information1. What makes plants different than animals?
1. What makes plants different than animals? tiger lily tiger 1. Plants are producers, which means they make their own food (through photosynthesis). 2. While plants can move certain structures, they cannot
More informationWhere is the tropical zone? What are three biomes found in the tropical zone?
Name CHAPTER 3 Class Date Climate 2 The Tropics SECTION BEFORE YOU READ After you read this section, you should be able to answer these questions: Where is the tropical zone? What are three biomes found
More informationBiomes There are 2 types: Terrestrial Biomes (on land) Aquatic Biomes (in the water)
Biomes There are 2 types: Terrestrial Biomes (on land) Aquatic Biomes (in the water) Terrestrial Biomes Grassland, Desert, and Tundra Biomes: Savanna Temperate grassland Chaparral Desert Tundra Chapter
More informationAtmosphere, Weather & Climate Review for Unit Assessment (Can be taken on Study Island Due Mon., 11/26/12)
Name Class Period Atmosphere, Weather & Climate Review for Unit Assessment (Can be taken on Study Island Due Mon., 11/26/12) 1. When hot and cold air meet, the hot air rises to the top. Which process causes
More informationWebsite Lecture 3 The Physical Environment Part 1
Website http://websites.rcc.edu/halama Lecture 3 The Physical Environment Part 1 1 Lectures 3 & 4 1. Biogeochemical Cycling 2. Solar Radiation 3. The Atmosphere 4. The Global Ocean 5. Weather and Climate
More information