#1
What is the primary factor that determines the type of vegetation in an ecosystem?
Rainfall
ExplanationRainfall determines the type of vegetation by influencing water availability.
#2
Which trophic level in an ecosystem is responsible for converting solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis?
Producers
ExplanationProducers, such as plants, utilize photosynthesis to convert solar energy into chemical energy.
#3
What is the term for the process where nitrogen gas is converted into ammonia or other nitrogen compounds by bacteria?
Nitrogen fixation
ExplanationNitrogen fixation involves the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen gas into usable forms by bacteria.
#4
Which of the following is an example of a pioneer species in ecological succession?
Moss
ExplanationMoss is a pioneer species that colonizes bare environments and initiates ecological succession.
#5
What is the term for the total mass of living organisms in a given area?
Biomass
ExplanationBiomass refers to the total mass of living organisms in a given area.
#6
Which of the following is an example of a keystone species in an ecosystem?
Wolves
ExplanationWolves are a keystone species, meaning they have a disproportionate impact on their ecosystem.
#7
What term is used to describe the process by which ecosystems change over time due to natural or human-induced factors?
Ecological succession
ExplanationEcological succession refers to the gradual process of ecosystem development over time.
#8
What is the term for the variety of different species in an ecosystem?
Species diversity
ExplanationSpecies diversity refers to the variety of different species within an ecosystem.
#9
In which layer of the ocean do you find the majority of marine life and biodiversity?
Epipelagic zone
ExplanationThe epipelagic zone harbors the majority of marine life and biodiversity.
#10
Which biome is characterized by hot temperatures, high humidity, and a dense canopy of trees?
Rainforest
ExplanationRainforests are characterized by high temperatures, humidity, and dense tree cover.
#11
What is the primary factor contributing to coral bleaching in marine ecosystems?
Rising sea temperatures
ExplanationCoral bleaching is primarily caused by rising sea temperatures, which stress coral organisms.
#12
Which biome is characterized by cold temperatures, permafrost, and a lack of trees?
Tundra
ExplanationTundra biome features cold temperatures, permafrost, and minimal tree growth.
#13
What is the primary function of decomposers in an ecosystem?
Break down dead organic matter
ExplanationDecomposers play a crucial role in ecosystem nutrient recycling by breaking down dead organic matter.
#14
What is the term for the relationship where both species benefit from each other?
Mutualism
ExplanationMutualism describes a symbiotic relationship where both species benefit from each other's presence.
#15
Which global environmental issue is associated with the loss of biodiversity?
Deforestation
ExplanationDeforestation contributes to the loss of biodiversity by destroying habitats.
#16
Which ecosystem service is responsible for regulating and purifying water through natural processes?
Regulating services
ExplanationRegulating services of ecosystems include water purification and regulation of water flow.
#17
What is the term for the movement of individuals into a population, increasing its size?
Immigration
ExplanationImmigration refers to the movement of individuals into a population, increasing its size.