1.4. Ecosystem Dynamics

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define what an ecosystem is.

   Hint

   Consider what components make up an ecosystem.

2. 2.

   What do producers do?

   Hint

   Think about organisms in a forest.

3. 3.

   What is an ecosystem?

   • A. A group of species
   • B. A functional unit of interactions
   • C. A single-organism habitat

   Hint

   Think about how organisms relate to their surroundings.

4. 4.

   True or False: Nutrient cycling is exclusive to soil.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider all elements that provide nutrients.

5. 5.

   Analyze how a natural disaster, such as a hurricane, might affect both energy flow and nutrient cycling in coastal ecosystems.

   Hint

   Consider how energy transfers might be altered post-disaster.

6. 6.

   Evaluate the long-term impacts of human-induced climate change on biodiversity. How would you suggest combating these effects?

   Hint

   Think about what changes result from a shift in climate patterns.