Ecosystems & Biogeochemical Cycles Unit

Name:____________________________________ Date:__________

Define & answer the following vocabulary & questions from “Introduction” p.536-537.

Biosphere:

Biogeography:

Ecology:

Ecosystem:

Pioneer Communities:

1. How do interactions between land and atmosphere affect life, including humans?

2. How do life & land interact chemically, interfacing through the soil?

3. How does carbon cycle back & forth in the environment?

4. What are the main components of an ecosystem, & what role does water play in a healthy
ecosystem?
5. How do different types of animals interact, and what happens to their populations if they compete
with one another or depend on one another?

6. What does it mean for a relationship to be called symbiotic, and what other types of relationships
exist between living organisms?

7. What do we mean by biodiversity, & what can decrease it?

 How is the Ecosystem Approach Useful in Understanding the Biosphere?

Name:____________________________________ Date:__________

Define & answer the following vocabulary & questions from “Ch.1” p.538-539.

Ecologists:

Physical Geographers (Biogeography):

Individual:

Population:

Community:

Biotic Components:

Abiotic Components:

Energy:

Habitat:

Ecological Niches:

Ecosystem Structures:

Ecosystem Functions:
 How is the Ecosystem Approach Useful in Understanding the Biosphere?
Quiz

Name:____________________________________ Date:__________

Answer the following questions using your text:

1. Explain what ecology and an ecosystem are:

2. Describe the difference between habitat and niche.

3. Sketch and explain an example that contrasts ecosystem structures and ecosystem functions.

4. What are some recent impacts on the Aral Sea ecosystem?