The Ultimate APES Study Guide
1972
DDT was banned in the US
Abysll
Dark and very cold little do/little npp, good amount of decomposers
open ocean
Deep ocean water, located away from the shoreline where sunlight can no longer reach the ocean bottom
denitrification
Denitrification is the process by which nitrates are reduced to gaseous nitrogen (N2) and lost to the atmosphere. This process occurs by facultative anaerobes in anaerobic environments. Farmers with waterlogged fields and soils that have high clay content are especially vulnerable to nitrogen losses due to denitrification.
Contrast the effects of density-dependent and density-independent factors on population growth
Density-dependent factors influence an individual's probability of survival and reproduction in a manner that is related to the since of the population. Density-independent factors have the same effect on an individual's probability of survival and reproduction in populations of any size
Mesotrophic
Describes a lake with a moderate level of productivity
Bathyll
Dimly lit middle zone gets little sunlight low do / low npp
health effects of Dioxin (source, health, remediation)
Dioxin Location: Soil;water Dioxin Source: Group of similar chemical compounds. Not produced intentionally; naturally produced in forest fires; anthropogenic sources included incineration; chlorine bleaching at paper mills; ETS most toxic is TCDD. Human exposure in fish ingested from contaminated waterways; ingestion of animal fat Dioxin Environmental Impact: Bioaccumulates in fat. Animal toxicity-liver toxicity; affects endocrine, immune, nervous, and reproductive systems. Highly persistent Dioxin Human Health Effects: Acute-Chloracne, skin rashes, skin discoloration. Bioaccumulates in fat Chronic-liver damage, teratogen, immunotoxic, likely human carcinogen Dioxin Prevention/Remediation: Prevent- government regulatory action, use chemicals other than chlorine to bleach or sterilize. Remove plastics containing chlorine prior to was incineration, pollution control devices to remove dioxins after incineration Remediate-bioremediation; chemical remediation; physical removal of contaminated soil.
Disease Agents Location: Water
Disease Agents Source: Animal and human wastes indicated by increased levels of fecal coliforms. Which may indicate presence of human pathogens. Disease Agents environmental impacts: Includes bacteria that cause cholera,typhoid, dysentery, and viruses like hepatitis A. May also include cryptosporidium and Giardia, protozoal parasites, that cause gastrointestinal disease Disease Agents human health effects: Causes human disease including diarrhea, nausea, and so on. Disease Agents Prevention/remediation: Prevent- ensure wastes are treated prior to discharge into surface water or groundwater. Chlorination, government regulatory action Remediate- treat water to kill organisms
Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) Location: Air (indoor)
ETS Source: Cigarette smoking ETS Environmental impacts: human health effects ETS Human health effects: lung cancer, respiratory disease, heart disease ETS Prevention/remediation: Prevent- improve ventilation; prevent smoking indoors; government regulatory action Remediate-ventilate; clean area thoroughly
Impact of stratospheric arose and how it reflects sunlight
Each surface has a specific effect on the Earth's temperature. Snow and ice reflect a lot of the sun's energy back into space. The darker oceans absorb energy, which warms the water. Oceans help keep the Earth warm because they absorb a lot of heat (approximately 90%). This warming increases water vapour, which acts as a greenhouse gas and helps to keep temperatures within ranges humans have largely taken for granted for millennia.
describe how Earth's tilt affects seasonal differences in temperatures
Earth's central axis is tilted at 23.5 degrees, which causes seasonal changes in that latitudes that receive the most intense light
distinguish among various forms of energy and understand how they are measured
Energy can take various forms, including energy that is stored (potential energy) and the energy of motion (kinetic energy). Joules and calories are two important energy units
1978
Federal ban on chlorofluorocarbons
Formaldehyde location: Air (indoor)
Formaldehyde source: released from building material such as plywood, textiles, furniture stuffing, carpets Formaldehyde Environmental impact: human health effects Formaldehyde human health effects: Acute/chronic-dizziness, rash, breathing problems, headaches, and nausea formaldehyde prevention/remediation: prevent-use other materials to manufacture materials, use other materials that do not contain formaldehyde remediate-improve ventilation
Rock cycle
Geological cycle governing the constant formation, alteration, and destruction of rock material at hat results from tectonics, weathering, and erosion, among other processes.
Example of the tragedy of commons
Grand Banks fisheries The Grand Banks are fishing grounds off the coast of Newfoundland. For centuries, explorers and fishermen described this region as home to an endless supply of cod fish. In the 1960s and 1970s, advances in fishing technology allowed huge catches of cod. Following a few dramatically large seasons, the fish populations dropped, forcing Canadian fishermen to sail farther to maintain large catch sizes each season. By the 1990s, cod populations were so low that the Grand Banks fishing industry collapsed. It was too late for regulation and management; the cod stocks had been irreparably damaged. Since then, the cod populations have remained low, and some scientists doubt the Grand Banks ecosystem will ever recover.
1978-Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement
Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA) The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement is a commitment between the United States and Canada to restore and protect the waters of the Great Lakes. The Agreement provides a framework for identifying binational priorities and implementing actions that improve water quality.
Infectious disease: Emergent
HIV/AIDS : - spreads through sex, drug users - likely from chimps EBOLA: disease with high death rates, primarily in Africa - likely from fruit bats MAD COW DISEASE - disease where Prions (proteins from brain) mutates into pathogens - from eating infectious catlle SWINE AND BIRD FLU - Viruses that jump from pigs (H1N1) and birds (H5N1) - prominent in Asia SEVERE ACUTE RESPIRATORY SYNDROME (SARS) - type of flu caused by a coronavirus WEST NILE VIRUS - Transmitted among birds by mosquitos and then humans
Leading risks to health
High-income nations: - Tobacco, High blood Pressure, obesity Low-income nations: - Underweight, high blood pressure, unsafe sex
8 elements in earths crust
(1) Oxygen - 47% (2) silicon - 30% (3) Aluminum - 8% (4) Iron - 5% (5) Calcium - 4% (6) sodium - 3% (7) Potassium -3% (8) Magnesium - 2%
CTL
(coal to liquid) process of converting solid coal into liquid fuel
Species abundance
- number or individuals of each species
Organic
- production of crops without synthetic chemicals - Now regulated by US organic foods protection act
control Rods
- regulate the number of neutrons in the core of a nuclear reactor and control the rate of reaction
atmospheric levels
-thermosphere - Mesosphere - stratosphere (contains protective ozone)
Ocean has a low npp everywhere it only comes from natural upwellings of nutrients
...
24. What causes leaching?
24. Leaching removes nutrients from soil
Amensalism
=( + =l One species in negatively effected while the other is not effected
carnivore
A consumer that eats other consumers
Septic tank
A large container that recives wastewater from a house as part of a septic system
Commensalism
A relationship between two organisms in which one organism benefits and the other is unaffected
Dike
A structure built to prevent ocean waters from flooding adjacent land.
Element
A substance composed of atoms that cannot be broken down into smaller, simpler components
Base
A substance that contributes hydroxide ions to a solution
mangrove Swamp
A swamp that occurs along tropical and subtropical coats, and contains salt tolerant trees with roots submerged in water
Cultural eutrophication
An increase in fertility in a body of water, in resilt of anthropogenic inputs of nutrients
Fitness
An individual's ability to survive and reproduce
Saltwater Intrusion
An infiltration of salt water in an area where groundwater pressure has been reduced from extensive drilling wells
Isotopes
Atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons
Carbonate formation in the ocean
Ca2+ + 2HCO3- --> CO2 + H20 + CaCO3
1975
Congress set national tailpipe emissions standards to prevent automotive air pollution
polar cells
Convection currents formed by air that rises at 60°N and S and sinks at the poles(90°N and S).
Eutrophic
Describes a lake with a high level of productivity
Transit-oriented development (TOD)
Development that attempts to focus dense residential and retail development around stops for public transportation, a component of smart growth
El Nino (ENSO)
El Niño Southern Oscillation -A warm current of water; a disruption of the ocean-atmospheric system in the tropical Pacific having important consequences in weather around the world
hydroelectricity
Electricity generated by the kinetic energy of moving water
Identify process of genetic diversity
Every individual has a genotype that, in combination with the environment, determines its phenotype. In a population, generic diversity is produced by the process of mutation and recombination
Phytoplankton
Floating algae
GPP
Gross Primary Product - rate plants capture and fix a given amount of chemical energy
Dead zone
In a body of water, an are with extremly low oxygen concentration and very little life
ammonification
Mineralization is performed by bacteria to convert organic nitrogen to ammonia. Nitrification can then occur to convert the ammonium to nitrite and nitrate.
Natural ozone accumulation (day)
NO2 --> NO + O --> O +O2 --> O3 (ozone)
What part of the world has 24 hours of daylight on December 21st?
North pole region
Costal zone
Ocean/ shore lots of sun
leading producers of CO2
On road Vehicles Non-road equipment fires
the three R's
Reduce, reuse, recycle A popular phrase promoting the idea of diverting materials from the waste stream.
preservation
Remaining wilderness on public lands should be left untouched
secondary pollutant example
SO3 H2SO4 O3 H2O2 HNO3 most NO3- and SO2-
Sludge
Solid waste material from wastewater
environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The U.S organization that oversees all governmental efforts related to the environment, including science, research, assessment, and education.
Water footprint
The daily per capita use of fresh water
Seafloor spreading
The formation of new ocean crust as a result of magma pushing upward and outward from Earths mantle to the surface.
sympatric speciation
The formation of new species in populations that live in the same geographic area without geographic isolation
Recombination
The genetic process by which one chromosome breaks off and attaches to another chromosome during reproductive division
hydrologic cycle
The movement of water through the biosphere
Radioactive decay
The spontaneous release of material from the nucleus of radioactive isotopes.
water pollution
Thr contamination of streams, rivers, lakes, oceans. Or groundwater with substances through human activities
Contaminated water
Wastewater from toilets, kitchen sinks, ans disbwasher
fault
a fracture in rock caused by the movement of the Earths crust
output
a loss to a system
Salt Marsh
a marsh containing nonwoody emergent vegetation, found along the coast in temperate climates.
algal bloom
a rapid increase or accumulation in the algal population of a waterway
carbon neutral
activity that does not change atmospheric CO2 conditions
How to make soil more basic
add limestone/ eggshells
input
an addition to a system
smart grid
an efficient, self-regulating electricity distribution network that accepts any source of electricity and distributes it automatically to end users
Total MSW generation has
been rising since the 1960's
environmental indicators
biological diversity, food production, average global temperature and co2 concentration, human population, resource depletion.
global change
change that occurs in the biological, chemical, and physical properties of the planet
Global Climate Change
changes in the average weather that occurs in an area over a period of times or decades
cap-and-trade policies
control CO2 emissions
Rangeland
dry, open grassland
metal
element with certain properties that let it conduct energy, and other important functions
aquaculture
farming aquatic organisms such as fish, shellfish, and seaweeds
organic fertilizer
fertilizer composed of inorganic matter from plant and animals
nuclear fuels
fuel from radioactive materials that give off energy
accuracy
how close a measured value is to the actual or true value.
Biofuel
liquid fuel created from processed or refined biomass
biotic
living
Emigration
movement of people out of a country or region
Exajoule =__ watts
one times ten to the 18th
chemical energy
potential energy stored in chemical bonds
tempweature
the measure of the average kinetic energy of a substance
Cellular respiration
the process by which cells unlock the energy of chemical compounds
global warming
warming of ocean, land masses, and atmosphere of the Earth
market failure
when the economic system does not account for all costs
Crude birth rate (CBR)
# of births per 1,000 a year
Geographic distribution
(1) colonization and establishment (2) localized extinction (3) colonized extinction
Three largest composition of waste
(1) paper - 30% (2) Food Scraps - 15% (3) yard waste - 13% (3) Plastic - 13%
producer
(AKA Autotroph) An organism that uses the energy of the sun to produce usable forms of energy
What can lead to elevated Nitrates in the groundwater
- application of fertilizers * - improper sealing of feedlots - improper construction or maintenance of animal waste in lagoons
Industrial agriculture for agribusiness
- applies techniques of sanderdization and mechanization
what is the greatest threat to biodiversity?
- deforestation
physical mechanisms that remove plastics from the liquid component of wastewater
- screens/sieves -settling - nets - skimmers - filter - manual removal
Gross Primary Productivity
- total energy fixed by photosynthesis
Chemical studies of health risks
-LD50: lethal dose that kills 50% of the organism population - ED50: Dose that causes 50% of organisms to display harmful effects - Pose-response studies: expose organisms to a chemical to look for responses/ death - 10% of LD50 considered safe for animals -LD50 Divided by 1000 for humans is the same level - Retrospective studies: Monitor people who have been exposed to a chemical - prospective studies: monitor people who might expose future effects - synergistic reactions: two risks together that increase the risk as a whole -Bioaccumulation: concentration rises in a single biorganism - Biomagnification: rise in concentration and move up the food chasin
two affects that ingesting microbeeds has on aquatic organisms
-Microbeads fill or block the digestive tracts - organisms accumulate toxic chemicals (PCB, dioxins) from microbeads leading to long-term health effects
1 (G) gigawatt = __ watts
1 billion = 1 times ten to the 9th
1 (M) megawatt = ___ watts
1 million = 1 time ten to the 6th
a MSW mass-burning waste-to-energy incinerator
1) waste is dumped into a refuse bunker 2) crane moves material from bunker to hopper 3) waste is burned in incineration chamber 4) A bag-house filter helps clean air before it is released through the chimney 5) Ash is collected and removed from the plant 6) heat energy can used to generate electricity
17. Have we been successful in increasing crop yields and decreasing starvation?
17. Yes we have been successful in increasing crop yields and decreasing starvation.
1 curie =
37 billion decays per second
4. Explain how poor farming techniques and erosion can be used as an example of a destructive positive feedback loop.
4. Poor farming techniques like over tilling the soil can cause severe erosion which can lead to soil degradation. If soil lacks top soil and nutrients more tilling is required which leads to more erosion.
Groundwater recharge
A process by which water percolates through the soil and works its way into an aquifer .
tropical rain forest
A warm and wet biome found between 20N and 20S of the equator, with little seasonal variation and high presentation
Artesian Well
A well created by drilling a hole into confined aquifer .
multi-use zoning
A zoning classification that allows retail and high-density residential development to coexist in the same area
industrial agriculture
AKA Agribusiness agriculture that applies the techniques of mechanization and the standardization.
Where is the highest fertility rate?
Africa
Suburb Area
An area surrounding a metropolitan center with a comparatively low population density.
convergent plate boundary
An area where plates move towards one another and collide
Transform Fault boundary
An area where tectonic plates move sideways past each other
Permafrost
An impermeable, permanently frozen layer of soil
Distribution
Areas of the world in which a species lives
Mercury (Hg)
Cause: coal, oil, coal mining Effects: Impairs central nervous system Bio accumulates in the food chain
sulfur Dioxide (SO2)
Corrosive sources: combustion of fuels with sulfur in it (coal, oil, and gas) effects: Respiratory problems can harm plant tissue converts to sulfuric acid in atmosphere--> harm to vegetation and aquatic life
Oligotrophic
Describes a lake with a low level of productivity
infill
Development that fills in vacant lots within existing communities.
Explain the concept of ecosystem bounderies
Ecosystem boundaries distinguish one ecosystem from another. Although boundaries can be well-defined, often they are not. Boundaries are commonly defined either by topographic features, such as mountain ranges, or are subjectively set by administrative criteria rather than biological criteria
human capital
Human knowledge and abilities
Biogeochemical cycle
In geography and Earth science, a biogeochemical cycle or substance turnover or cycling of substances is a pathway by which a chemical substance moves through biotic (biosphere) and abiotic (lithosphere, atmosphere, and hydrosphere) compartments of Earth.
Hot spots
In geology, where molten material from Earths mantle reaches the lithosphere
oligotrophic
Lake with a low supply of plant nutrients. Compare eutrophic lake, mesotrophic lake.
Free Range meat
Less likely to spread disease or use use antibiotics, less supplemental feeding, natural processing of nature --> more Land, nigher cost
Thermal pollution
Nonchemical water pollution that occurs when human acrivitiea cause a substantial change in the temperature of water
Natural ozone destruction (night)
O3 (ozone) + NO ---> O2 +NO2
How is a parasitoid different from parasitism
Parasitoids lay eggs in its host
Population density equation
Population size / area = population density
positive and negative aspects of water quality changes caused by climate change
Positive -storm water runoff and flooding will help maintain water levels Negative - Higher temperatures lead to increased evaporation, lowering water levels - periods of heavy rainfall will increase storm water runoff and flooding - sea level will flood areas of the everglades
HPM
Pro - natural soil methods - increased yield CON - difficult , time consuming
angling
Recreational fishing, also called sport fishing, is fishing for pleasure or competition. It can be contrasted with commercial fishing, which is fishing for profit, or subsistence fishing, which is fishing for survival.
Haze
Reduced visibility
Understand how we estimate the number of species living on Earth
Scientists have estimated the number of species on Earth by collecting samples of diverse groups of organisms, determining the proportion of all known species, and then extrapolating these numbers to other groups to estimate the total number of species
sulfurous smog
Smog dominated by sulfur dioxide and sulfate compounds. Also known as London-type smog; gray smog; industrial smog
Particulate matter (PM)
Solid or liquid particles suspended in air; also known as particles and particulates
Corridor
Strips of natural habitat that collects populations
1977-Soil and Water Conservation Act
The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) was originally passed by Congress in 1974 to protect public health by regulating the nation's public drinking water supply. ... US EPA, states, and water systems then work together to make sure that these standards are met.
Extinction
The death of the last member of a species
intermediate disturbance hypothesis
The hypothesis that ecosystems ezperiencing intermediate levels of disturbance are more diverse than those with high or low disturbance levels
Subduction
The process of one crustal plate passing under another
transpiration
The release of water from leaves during photosynthesis
reproductive isolation
The result of two populations within a species evolving separately to the point that they can no longer interbreed and produce viable offspring
Plate tectonics
The theory that the lithosphere is divided into plates, most of which are in constant motion
photic Zone
The upper layer of ocean water in the ocean that receives enough sunlight for photosynthesis
Water Table
The uppermost level at which the water in a given area fully saturates rock or soil
population distribution
a description of how individuals are distributed with respect to one another
salinization
a form of soil degration that occurs when the small amount of salts in irrifation water become hightly concentrated ion the soil surface through evaporation
Electromagnetic radiation
a kind of radiation including visible light, radio waves, gamma rays, and X-rays, in which electric and magnetic fields vary simultaneously.
mass extinction
a large extinction of species in a relatively short period of time
compound
a molecule containing more then one element
molecule
a particle that contains more then one atom
Acid
a substance that contributes hydrogen ions to a solution.
Saprotropism
an organism that feeds on or derives nourishment from decaying organic matter.
average MSW chips produced per day
average: 2kg, 4.4Lbs
Hubbert Curve
bell shaped curve representing oil use and projecting both when world oil producion will reach its max and when the world will run out of oil
inter
between
undernutrition
condition where not enough calories are ingested to maintain health.
passive solar design
construction designed to take advantage of solar radiation without active technology
developed country
country with high levels of industrialization and income
doubling time calculation (years)
doubling time = 70/ growth rate
nondepletable
energy source that cannot be used up
IPAT equation
equation to estimate human impact Impact = population x affluence x destructive technology
greenhouse gases
gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat near the surface
explain how nature exsists at several levels of complexity
individuals, populations, communities, ecosystems, and the biosphere
biophilia
love for life
hypoxic
low in oxygen
fossil fuel
made from biological material that had become fossilized
Describe patterns of relatedness among species using phylogeny
patterns of relatedness are depicted as phylogeny.
entropy
randomness in a system
closed-loop recycling
recycling a product into the same product
igneous rock
rocks formed directly from magma
explain why efforts to achieve sustainability must consider both sound environmental science and economic analysis
sustainable environmental systems must allow for maintaining air, water, land, and biosphere systems must also maintain human well-being-- Sustainability will not be achieved if certain groups are exposed to a disproportionate share of dirty jobs or waste material in the home or workplace.
mining soils
tailing unwanted waste material created by mining
Sustainability
the ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
Energy
the ability to do work, or transfer heat
mantle
the layer of Earth above the core, containing Magma
sample size (n)
the number of times a measurement is replicated in a data collection
Ocean Acidification
the processes that increases CO2 concentration in the ocean, causing CO2 to convert into carbonic acid, which lowers the PH of water
sex ratio
the proportion of males to females in a population
soil degradation
then loss of all of some of a plants ability to support plant growth.
if TFR is 2.1 then
this suggest that the population is stable
Bioaccumulation and biomagnification can be used interchangeably
"Another effect that microbeads have on organisms is the bioaccumulation of pollutants such as PCBs and dioxin. The microbeads can absorb these pollutants since the organisms digest the microbeads the pollutants ultimately end up in their system" "It also accumulates organic pollutants in the organism's system."
life-cycle analysis
"Cradle-to-grave analysis" a tool that looks at materials life- from raw materials through their manufactured use and disposal
Nitrates or algae directly causes a drop in dissolved oxygen levels
"When nitrate levels are high, more algae can bloom because nitrogen is a limiting factor. When the surplus algae dies, oxygen is extracted from the water so decomposition may occur. THis dramatically reduces D.O (dissolved oxygen) levels , which can cause organisms to suffocate and die."
Infant mortality
# of deaths children under 1 year per 1,000
Child mortaliity
# of deaths children under 5 per 1,000 births
Crude Death rate (CDR)
# of deaths per 1,000 a year
Factors that effect soil formation
(1) Temperature -High Increase the rates of biological activity (decomposition) and chemical activity -- increases rates of soil formation - low decreases rates of decomposition -- decreases the rate of soil formation increases rate of weathering (frozen water expands, breaking rock) -- increases the rate of soil formation (2) Precipitation/humidity -high increases biological activity and weathering -- increases the rate of soil formation increases erosion, runoff-- decreases the rate of soil formation -low decreases biological activity and weathering -- decreases the rate of formation (3) wind - can carry particles -- increases rates of accumulation can hasten rates of soil erosion-- decrease rates off accumulation
Why is surface mining less expensive than subsurface mining?
(1) Wages Fewer workers needed above ground (workers paid less above ground) (2) Healthcare Workman's compensation insurance (3) Safety Increased likelihood below ground of severe accidents, death, and black lung (4) Legal costs Lawsuits from injuries, accidents, and rescue
major anthropocentric sources of nitrogen pollution
(1) agriculture -excessive fertilizer use (2) stormwater - collects pollutants that accumulate on the street (3) wastewater - will not always adequately remove phosphorous and Nitrogen from the water (4) Fossil fuels -Electric power generation, industry, transportation and agriculture have increased the amount of nitrogen in the air through use of fossil fuels. (5) In and around homes - Fertilizer, certain detergents, and runoff
3 leading causes of death (globally)
(1) cardiovascular Diseases 29% (2) Infectious diseases (26%) - HIV/aids (21%) -diarrheal diseases (24%) - TB (12%) - Malaria (9%) Childhood diseases (8%) - other (8%) (3) cancer 13%)
why has their been an increase in emerging infectious diseases affecting hums
(1) climate change - allows pathogens and disease vectors to survive in places that were previously too cold or dry (2) increase in global travel - increased livelihood or contracting/ spread disease (3) increased exposure to animals (zoonotic) - changes in agricultural practice increase rodents, etc. trade in exotic species, intrusion into wild habitats, urban sprawl. (4) increase in population density/ distribution - increased likelihood of contracting/ spreading disease from others (5) lack of vacines - increase human susceptitility to disease, reduce herd immunity (6) antibiotic resitance - new disease strain evolve (7) decrease in medical care/ public health - poverty, war, migration, human behavior (refusing to use condoms/ sharing needles/ refusing aid)
Identify 8 ecosystem services and the benefits to humans that they provide
(1) resource material (trees/forests) - Lumber, building material, fuel, paper, food (2)oxygen production - human respiration (3) soil formation/ protection -forestry, agriculture, flood control, water quality, (4) protection of water supplies - drinking water, recreation, irrigation, fishing (5) Habitat (specifically shade, temperature, moderation, etc. - animals or plants desired by humand for fishing, hunting, and food (6) Biodiversity -food, medicine, gene dicersity, breeding stock (7) Carbon sink (sequesting) - slows climate change (8) Aesthetic/ cultural/societal - connection with nature (incpired for art, music, poetry), research, education, recreation, tourism
10 largest plastic products that are getting in the ocean
(1) tiers (2) synthetics (3) tennis balls (4) laundry (5) cigarette butts (6) glitter (7) wet wips (8) tea bags (9) paint (10) Takeout cups
Theory if demographic transition
(4 phases) as a country moves to a subsistence economy to industrialized and increases affluence (dealing with money/wealth) it goes through predictable shift of population growth
consumer
(AKA Heterotroph) an organism that is incapable of photosynthesis and must obtain its energy by consuming other organisms.
herbivore
(AKA Primary consumers) A consumer that eats producers
25. Draw and label a diagram of the soil horizons.
(Look in book)
Erosion
(a type of land degradation) the movement of soil components, especially surface litter and topsoil from one place to another.
percent efficiency
(workout)/ (work in) x 100%
acid deposition
, is a broad term that includes any form of precipitation with acidic components, such as sulfuric or nitric acid that fall to the ground from the atmosphere in wet or dry forms. This can include rain, snow, fog, hail or even dust that is acidic
Incineration
- Ash: residual organic material that doesn't combust = bottom: ash that collects at the bottom of the chamber = fly: collected from chimney/ pipe =taken to an appropriate landfill and can generate energy PROs - reduce volume mass - can produce energy - technology such as scrubbers/ filters reduce pollution - Pollution is one quarter of the original volume CONs - ash + air pollutants release greenhouse gas - requires large amounts of trash, discouraging recycling - toxic ash
Describe a practical way to increase food production within urban areas
- Gardens/ victory gardens; vertical farming, hydroponics, greenhouses - edible gardens in public/ open spaces - green roofs can include edible plants ("green roof" by itself should not earn a point) - zoning allow the raising bees, chickens, microlivestock - provide incentives for: use of greenway/ areas gardens, vacant lots for community agriculture; land under power lines. in floodplans -brownfield reclamation and conservation guardians
The Consequences of El Niño
- Increased rainfall in southern tier of US and in Peru, causing flooding; could cause droughts on eastern coast of Asia and in Australia (fires); marine life is reduced NORMAL CONDITIONS -Trade winds blow west across tropical Pacific, pile up warm surface water in west Pacific so the sea surface is about half a meter higher in Indonesia than Ecuador; water is 8 degrees celsius warmer in western Pacific; usually moves warm water towards instead of away from Asia, making it typically have a lot of rain EL NINO CONDITIONS -Trade winds are weakened, allowing warm western Pacific waters to move east and reach South American coasts that makes the thermocline (layer between surface water and deep water) deeper; nutrient rich waters on the coasts are depleted by warmer waters because thermocline is deeper
MSW
- Municipal Solid Waste - garbage - Americans generated 250 million tons of trash and recycled and composted over 85 million tones of this material, equivalent to 34% recycling rate
green manure
- a type of crop grown primarily to add nutrients and organic matter to the soil - grown for a specific period of time, and then plowed under incorporated into the soil while "green", or shortly after flowering. - green manures - function in weed suppression and can prevent soil eroision - can be tracked to the fallow cycle of crop rotation, which was used to make soil recovor
Characteristics of forests (reasons fires are suppressed)
- accumulation of combustible material (layer of leaf litter and debris on foest floor, dead trees, etc) - increase in understory growth (grass, shrubs, brush, ladder trees) - Larger trees develop - Even-aged stands develop - tree density increases - fire-intolerant species increase in number in the understory - fire-tolerant species that need fire to germinate seeds decrease in population - increased canopy coverage eliminates understory growth - increased or decreased in the rate of nutrient cycling (release of release of nutrients of litter, lack of nutrientp rich ash) - no loss of nutrients to burning in intense fires - increased susceptibility to disease/ parasites
ways to remediation acid deposition
- add crushed limestone. (lime, marble dust, bone meal/ crushed egg shells or oyster shells
when stating the impact in an FRQ
- always address if it's positive or neg (also skim all questions before start answering)
Primary Productivity
- amount of biomass passed through photosynthesis
WNS
- an emerging disease in bads - humans also subject to emerging diseases like ebola - study suggest that emerging infectious diseases affecting human populations have increased in recent decades
Human Health Effects
- asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, airway inflammation, irritation of mucus membranes, respiratory irritation - obesity, impaired immune response, diabetes, hypertension, high blood pressure from poor diet and exercise - Depression, anxiety, suppressed immune response from social isolation - personal injuries associated with automobile crashes due to increased driving - Hearing loss, impaired immune response to noise pollution - Survival rate/ recovery rate hundered due to delays in emergency medical services response and fire department response due to dpreas of housing - reduction in disease spread in lower income areas
Steps to reduce phosphorous from the environment
- buffer zones/retention ponds/ waste lagoons around agricultural areas - swales/ rain battles/cisterns/rain garden/ green roofs in residential areas - artificial wetlands created to capture runoff from agricultural areas (storm water treatment area (STA) are planted with cattails) - permeable pavements/ permeable pavers to treat runoff - fertilizer used more efficiently/precision agriculture/ more efficient irrigation techniques - Restrictions on phosphate-containinf detergents or pesticides - wastewater treatment plants upgradeed to remove phosphates from wastewater (tertiary or advanced treatment) - Public education campaign about efficent use of fertilizers or alternatices to fertilizers
environmental consequences of nuclear power plants
- cancer/tumors in animals - radioactive contamination of plants or animals in food webs - genetic mutations -Death of plants and animals - impacts on biodiversity - impacts on plants or animal population size
ecosystem services provided for humans by forests and explain how clear cutting could alter this
- carbon that is removed from the atmosphere by trees help to limit the magnitude of the atmospheric greenhouse effect --> some carbon will be released to the atmosphere or will not be removed - Forest provides oxygen --> some loss of oxygen, without which we cannot live -forests provide habitat for many species, some of which provide food and goods for himans, some of which cause harm --> Loss of habitat (biodiversity) - Forests provide wood (construction material, paper) --> increase in the short-term avalibility of wood, but potential long-term loss of avalibiliy - forests provide wood for fuel --> increase in the short-term avalibality of wood, but potential long-term loss of ability -Many products, such as glue, rubber, and medicines, are produced with forest products --> increases in the short-term avalibility of these products, but potential long-term loss of avalibility - Forests influence the local microclimate affecting humans (Change in temperature, shade, UV, wind breaks) --> changes in the microclimate -Forests have aesthetic value (hiking, camping, photography, tourism) --> decrease in natural beauty - forests improve the quality of soil and water used by humans (soil and water must be linkedto a specific human use) --> increases in erosion and runoff and decrease in groundwater recharge, changing water quality.
ways wastewater are disinfected
- chlorination - treatment with ultraviolet (UV) light - ozonation -membrane filtration (reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration)
Methods to reduce harmful effects on wildlife populations from highways and urban sprawl
- create wildlife corridors/ tunnels between green areas - create wildlife crossing zones/ tunnels overpass, etc. - plan highways around existing migratory routes and prime habitats - avoid fragmentation of habitat by housing developments - set aside land for/ increase size of refugees; increase green space and buffer zones along highways - construct highway fencing, especially along migratory routes -promote planting of natice plants to provide habitat - enforce anti-littering laws along highwats reduce highwat speed limits "Wildlife caution signs" - encourage carpool (fewer cars, fewer wildlife collisions)
Describe one ecological consequence of pollution treat (thermal pollution)
- decline in dissolved Oxygen (DO) - impacts on biodiversity - thermal shock in organisms - increased rates of metabolism in organisms - increased rates of bacterial growth - increased incidence of disease in fish - increased algal growth
Describe two threats to the survival of the bat species if the bat species if the total number of bats is very small
- difficulty finding a new mat when pop size is small, widely diverse, or skewed sex ratios -competition from other species with similar niches (eg. nesting sites, food) - problems associated with a reduction of genetic diversity (small gene pool, lack of hybrid vigor, diseases that affect one will affect all members of the population, bottleneck effect - susceptibility to reduce fitness as result of decreased protection but the group (e.g not becoming prey without the advantage conferred by group size) - increased vulnerability to environmental disturbances (need to name a specific disturbance)
stratospheric ozone depletion
- disrupts photosynthesis in plants UV Radiation Increased UV ration causes: (1) Reduction in the growth and population of phytoplankton (2) damage DNA in Phytoplankton (3) reduced numbers of phytoplankton, so less krill available for higher-order customers (4) Reduction in leaf growth and surface area (5) decrease in photosynthetic activity
global warming impact on environment
- dry habitat - salt tolerant plants move in - less biodiversity -less nitrification
How are swamps being removed by humans
- establishing aquaculture facilities (fish and shrimp farming) - expanding agriculture - developing coastal areas (marinas, condoas, resorts, infrastructure) -Harvesting mangroves for wood products, including paperclips - Burning mangroves for energy/charcoal production - removing mangroves for aesthetic reasons (to improve views) - removing trees to crease access to coastal waters
Benefits of fires in Grasslands (savannah, steppe, veidt, pampas, praine, marquis, garrigue)
- fire destroys invasive plant species that compete for resources with native grasses - fire removes cover and allows sunlight penetration - fire helps the seeds of native grasses to germinate - fires enhance cycling the of nutrients back into the soil
benefits of Chaparrall (Mediterranean scrubland, Mediterranean shrubland)
- fire removes brush, reducing competition for resources, -fire helps plants that require fire or lack of brush cover to germinate - species that vigorously stump dropout quickly - fires enhance cycling of nutrients back into the soil
Why does disease seldom cause extinction?
- genetic diversity in wild pops enables some resistant organisms to survive and reproduce - Disease organisms often co-evolve with their host, allowing the host to evolve and adapt that resists diseases - disease organisms/pathogens that cause the extinction of their hos population prioritizes their own survival - initial deaths tin (the density of) populations and make the disease less likely to spread
Describe the environmental problems that could result from the construction of the plant (Prior to the operation)
- habitat or riparian area destruction/ fragmentation at the construction site - disruption of habitat caused by the installation of power lines - water pollution/ stormwater runorr - soil compaction from the construction process or by machinery used - sediment runoff/ erosion is wet weather - noise pollution from mschinery - construction waste disposal/landfill - gases/ pollution emitted from machinery such as CO2, NO2, SO2, CO, PM
What promotes fertility above its replacement level?
- increase urbanization - increase education - increase sanitation - increasing family planning
ways climate change is leading to soil degradation
- increased global temperatures and decreased precipitation can cause desertification - increased temperatures lead to increased evaporation of irrigation water, resulting in soil salinization - increased erosion and/or leaching can increase precipitation in certain areas - increased temp can lead to faster breakdown of organic matter (less organic matter in soil) - rising sea levels can result in flooding of coastal areas, leading to salinization of soil and increased soil erosion - increased temp can lead to soil desiccation
How acid deposition can affect soil health
- increased soil acidity may be outside of the optimal range of tolerance for the plant, resulting in poor plant growth or death - acid can leach cations/metal ions/ nutrients from soil, making them less available to plants, thus decreasing growth - aluminum is released and can be toxic to plants - acid can diminish the ability of soil to buffer, leading to poor plant growth - increased soil acidity can damage plant root systems, stressing plants - sulfur and nitrogen from acid deposition can build up to levels toxic to plants
Describe one way that restoring the Everglades is expected to provide economic benefits to Florida
- increased tourism/ recreation (increased number of visitors to the everglades National Park) - create jobs to work in the tourism/ recreation/ restoration industries - maintain clean water, so less money had to be spent on water treatment - attract businesses that provides tours of the area that will increase tax revenue
Describe ways in which other organisms in an ecosystem could be affected by a decline in a bat population
- increases in bat food sources - increases in west nile and other insectborn diseases - decrease in the spreads of rabies - decrease in fungus that causes WNS - Decrease in bat Geno (tied to organisms) - decline in plants pollinated or dispersed by bats - decline in numbers of animals with similar food and inhabit needs -causes a trophic cascade
Hazardous Waste
- liquid, solid, gas, or sludge that is harmful to humans or ecosystems by products of industrial processes, households, farms
discuss one aspect of bat biology that might slow the recovery of little brown bat population to pre-WNS numbers
- low fecunity/ few babies per year - long generation times in bats - advanced age at first reproduction - increased parental care
impacts in improving the environment
- more jobs for recreational workforce - decrease money for clean water - increased taz
How do nitrates accumulate over time
- nitrates infiltrate/ percolate/ seep into groundwater - nitrates entering surface waters that recharge aquifers (must connect surface with ground water)
Describe the relationship between population density and petroleum (used in graph)
- petroleum use is inversely proportional to population density -petroleum increases ans population density decreases
ways phosphorous effects can adversely affect the everglades ecosystem
- phosphorous can speed eutrophication and stimulate harmful algal blooms - phosphorous may give a selective advantage to invasive species, which displace native plants (native species are adapted to low levels of phosphorous) - a specific example of a native species being displaced by a non native species (or a non endemic species, such as cattails, replacing the endemic sawgrass)
Solid waste produced by Nuclear power plants
- radioactive wastes are produced (must be stored for long time) - spent fuel rods are radioactive - clothing, gloves, and tools are radioactive - radioactive waste results from accidents
ways residents and businesses could take to reduce the use of electricity
- replace existing appliances with more efficient appliances (air conditioners, heat pumps, fridges) - replace electrical appliances with gas appliances (stove, hot water, heater) - switch to passive solar heating or cooling techniques - replace incandescent light bulbs with CFLs and LEDs - replace a conventional water heater with tankless hot water heaters - increase insulation (walls, ceiling, hot water heater) - turn off electrical appliances when they are not in use - unplug chargers - develop a series of public service announcements to educate the public about how to reduce electrical consumption -other appropriate techniques
human activities that contribute to increase phosphorus levels in the everglades
- runoff from fertilizer or pesticides used in agriculture, residential lawn care or gulf courses - seepage from septic systems located near canals -discharge from wastewater treatment plants that lack tertiary or advanced wastewater treatment -combined sewer overflows (CSOs) when rain volume exceeds wastewater treatment plant capacity - runoff of animal waste from feedlots - use of phosphate-containing detergents
What is the largest contaminate of water by weight and volume?
- sediment -leading pollution problem in rivers and streams - leading pollution problem in rivers and streams and fourth leading problem in lakes. - sedimentation is the result of soil erosion
ecosystem services provided by the mangrove swamp
- shoreline stabilization/protection (storm surge, tsunami, wave actions) -commercial fisheries - Nursery grounds for aquatic organism - biodiversity preservation - flood control - groundwater rechatge - sediment/ nutrient retention - nutrient cycling - absorption of carbon dioxide and release of oxygen - ecotourism/tourism/ recreational oppertunities - protection from saltwater intrusion
Describe non-anthropocentric events that have resulted in climate change
- water is diverted for irrigation of crops - the water is withdrawn for domestic uses as watering lawns, washing cars, cleaning the facility or an additional appropriate use - the water is diverted for flood control - road construction/ development interrupts the flow of surface water - wetlands are filled in for agriculture, or housing developments and/or road construction
NPP
--> Rate plants in an ecosystem produce an output = energy used
UNEP
-United Nations Environment Programme - is an agency of United Nations and coordinates its environmental activities, assisting developing countries in implementing environmentally sound policies and practices.
systems that can lessen thermopollution in nuclear power plants
-cooling towers - cooling ponds and canals - longer discharge pipes (increase the distance between the power plants and the discharge point)
Health Risks: Risk analysis
-innocent-until-proven guilty principle: not considered a hazard by scientific -precautionary principle: based on the belifs that action should be taken against plausible hazards
describe how restoring the water quantity and water quality in the Everglades is expected to improve the structure and function of the ecosystem
-re-establish biodiversity --> providing/ re-establishing habitats (wading birds will be able to re-establish their population) --> re-Establishment of native species/vegetation so that food webs/ food chains become more stable (apple snails will be able to lay their eggs and the food source for the Everglades Kite will be assured) - prevent degregation of adjacent coastal areas - less wutrophication leading to fewer algal blooms
sympathetic specialization
-speciation without geographic isolation within species -can be based on food source chosen matin habits
moderator
-substance made of water or graphite that is used in nuclear reactors to decrease the speed of fast neutrons and increase the likelihood of fission. The reactor control system requires the movement of neutron-absorbing control rodes in a ractor that is carefully controlled under increasing and decreasing reactivity
1970
-the Clean Air Act -National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
salinization
. Salinization is the build up of salt in the soil over time. Salinization inhibits production of 20@ of all irrigated cropland. Salinization can be caused by excessive irrigation. Water deposits salts which prevent infiltration and leaves water closer to the surface. In dry areas this water evaporates quickly leaving the salt behind. One way to avoid this is not to plant water guzzling crops in sensitive areas or utilize drip irrigation techniques. - increased temp and increased evaporation can lead to salinization
a modern sanitary landfill
1) solid waste s transported to landfill 2) waste is compacted by specialized machine 3) leachate collection system removes water and contaminants and carries them to wastewater treatment plants 4) landfill is capped and covered with soil and then planted with vegetation 5) methane produced in closed cells is extracted and either burned off or collected for use as fuel
a municipal composting facility
1) waste is dumped in tipping area 2) compostable and noncompostable materials are seperated 3) noncompostable material is removed to landfil 4) compostable material is aerated and turned one or more times (to speed up aerobic respiration) for a period of 30 days to one year 5) composted material is allowed to cure 6) finished compost is transported for use
Why are children more vulnerable to indoor air pollution?
1. Children inhale more pollutants per body weight than adults do 2. Their airways are narrower which leads to greater airway obstruction 3. They breathe more times at a faster rate 4. Small children often breathe through their mouths which skips the nose filter and allows more pollutants to pass
1. What is the difference between malnutrition and overnutrition?
1. Malnutrition - the shortage of nutrients/lacks vitamins and minerals/can occur in developed countries but mostly in developing Undernourishment - an individual receives less than 90% of their daily caloric needs/mostly occurs in developing countries Overnutrition - receiving too many calories/mostly occurs in developed countries
10. What are the three main ingredients of commercial inorganic fertilizers?
10. The three main ingredients of commercial inorganic fertilizer are nitrogen, potassium and phosphorous.
11. List four problems associated with agriculture.
11. Agriculture is using land to raise corps and livestock for human consumption. Unsustainable agriculture can lead to soil degradation by depleting the soil of essential nutrients and causing excessive erosion which can lead to desertification, irrigation which can lead to salinization, overuse of fertilizers and pesticides.
12. What is the Green Revolution?
12. The Green Revolution is using industrialized agriculture in developing countries. This revolution occurred in the 1940s. Green Revolution - synthetic fertilizers, chemical pesticides, irrigation and heavy equipments. This did increase biodiversity due to a decrease in deforestation. The Green Revolution increased cultivated areas, increase energy inputs, pollution, erosion, salinization and desertification.
14. What are the pros and cons of using pesticides?
14. The negative impacts of using pesticides = increase immunity, increase toxicity, pollution of water ways. The pros of using pesticides = increase crop yields
15. What are the pros and cons of monocultures?
15. The pros of monocultures = increase output, decrease starvation, good for economy. The cons of monocultures = decrease in biodiversity, increase in susceptibility to disease and pests, narrows human diet. 90% of food comes from 15 crop species and 8 livestock species.
16. What is the goal of integrated pet management? How is this goal accomplished?
16. IPM = integrated pest management uses biocontrol, chemicals, population monitoring, habitat alteration, crop rotation and transgenic crops, alternative tillage methods, and mechanical pest removal. The goal is not to eradicate all of the pests but most of the pests.
18. What impacts does overgrazing have on the environment?
18. Overgrazing can cause the soil to compact which closes off pore spaces and prevents permeability. It also increases erosion due to the loss of vegetation. Overgrazing can lead to desertification.
19. How does soil form?
19. Soil forms from physical and chemical weathering of parent material, freezing/thawing, growth of tree roots. Decomposition of organic material adds nutrients to the soil.
Competitive exclusive principle
2 species competing for a limiting resource cannot coexist
2. List four negative impacts of feedlots.
2. Feedlots are concentrated animal feeding operations/main drawbacks are water pollution, air pollution, outbreak of diseases and heavy use of antibiotic
20. What determines soil texture?
20. Soil texture is determined by the size of particles, sorting and shape.
21. What is the difference between agricultural land, cropland and rangeland?
21. Agricultural land is used for large crop growth and livestock/ Cropland is used only for crops/ Rangeland is used only for grazing livestock
22. Which soil horizon would contain humus?
22. Humus is organic compounds and is necessary for fertile soils and for holding soil moisture. Humus is found in the A horizon. This is the topsoil layer.
23. What are the pros and cons of subsistence agriculture?
23. Subsistence agriculture is when member of a farming family produce only enough food for themselves. No large scale irrigation, no chemical fertilizer, no machinery and no technology
26. Give several examples of chemical and physical weathering.
26. Physical weathering - wind/rain/freezing/grazing animals Chemical weathering - oxidation, fires, acid precipitation
27. What is the purpose of shelterbelts?
27. Shelterbelts stop wind erosion by planting trees around crops
28. What does the Conservation Reserve Program aim to do?
28. Conservation Reserve Program pays farmers to stop cultivate highly erodible cropland (conserves oil)/conservation districts/sets up management plans which sets up proper agricultural techniques in order to conserve soil.
29. What are the pros and cons of aquacultures?
29. Aquacultures - reliable protein source, sustainable, reduce fishing pressure and energy efficient/ cons=spread of disease, decrease food security and large amount of waste
3. What is the main difference between industrial and traditional agricultural?
3. Traditional agriculture is the use of human and animal power/industrial agriculture is the use of machines powered by fossil fuels in order to increase crop yields - industrialized agriculture also utilizes pesticides, fertilizers, and irrigation
30. Why are seed banks important?
30. Why are seed banks important - preserve seeds in case entire areas of crops are wiped out
31. Use the texture triangle to determine the type of soil. Once the soil is known, be able to discuss if this area would be best suited for a landfill.
31. Best type of soil for agriculture is loam/loam has a mixture of sand, silt and clay sized particles with a pH close to 7 that is workable and capable of holding nutrients. Good porosity, permeability and water retention.
Dust Bowl: causes and effects
32. cause: overgrazing/drought effect: inflation/medical issues and decrease crop yield solution: farming subsidies and soil conservation act
Acid rain
33. Acid precipitation has absorbed and reacted with compounds in the atmosphere to form acids pH less than 5.6/Northeast U.S. has greatest acid rain problem
Main cause of acid rain:
34.. Sulfuric acid (H2SO4) = 75% is the main cause of acid rain
Primary Pollutants
35. Primary pollutants = carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitric oxide, particulate matter and VOCs.
5. What is desertification? List four causes of desertification.
5. Desertification is the loss of more than 10% productivity (loss of nutrients). This is caused by erosion, soil compaction, deforestation, overgrazing, salinization and depletion of water source.
Fate of MSW in the US
54% discarded 34% reduce, Reuse, recycle 12% combustion for energy
6. What is salinization? How can irrigation lead to salinization?
6. Salinization is the build up of salt in the soil over time. Salinization inhibits production of 20@ of all irrigated cropland. Salinization can be caused by excessive irrigation. Water deposits salts which prevent infiltration and leaves water closer to the surface. In dry areas this water evaporates quickly leaving the salt behind. One way to avoid this is not to plant water guzzling crops in sensitive areas or utilize drip irrigation techniques.
7. What is the best and easiest way to conserve topsoil?
7. The best way to conserve topsoil is to plant vegetation. The roots will hold the soil in place.
8. What is the purpose of contour farming, crop rotation, and conservation tillage?
8. Contour Farming is planting at right angles to the slope of the land which prevents erosion. Crop rotation is switching the type of crop that is planted in a given area in order to replenish key nutrients.
9. List the major types of organic fertilizer.
9. Organic fertilizers consist of remains of wastes of organisms/manure, crop residue or fresh vegetation, compost is one of the main types of organic fertilizer because essential nutrients may be missing depending on what is used in the composting pile. Conservation tillage is reducing the amount of tilling in order to decrease soil erosion.
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
A 1969 U.S federal act that mandates an environmental assessment of all projects involving federal money or federal permits
Endangered Species Act
A 1973 U.S act designed to protect species from extinction
Multiple-use land
A U.S classification used to designate lands that may be used for recreation, grazing, timber harvesting and mineral extraction
Highway Trust Fund
A U.S federal fund that pays for the construction and maintenance of roads and highways
Dam
A barrier that runs across a river or stream to control the flow of water
subtropical desert
A biome prevailing at approximately 30N and 30S, with hot temperatures, extremely dry conditions, and sparse vegetation
Temperate seasonal forest
A biome with warm summers and cold winters with over 1 m (39 inches) of precipitation annually.
sick building syndrome
A buildup of toxic pollutants in a new building
Aqueduct
A canal or ditch used to carry water from one location to another
secondary consumer
A carnivore that eats primary consumers
founder effect
A change in the genetic composition of a population as a result of descending from a small number of colonizing individuals
Evolution
A change in the genetic composition of a population over time
Photochemical oxidant
A class of air pollutants formed as a result of sunlight acting on compounds such as nitrogen oxides
Tundra
A cold and treeless biome with low-growing vegetation.
inorganic comound
A compound that does not contain the element carbon, or contains carbon bound to elements other then hydrogen
food security
A condition in which people have access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs for an active and healthy life.
Leach field
A conponent of a septic system, made up of rhe underground surface bellow the ground
Ferrel Cell
A convection current in the atmosphere that lies between Hadley cells and polar cells
Age structure
A description of how many individuals fit into particular age categories in a population
Point sources
A distinct location from which pollution is directly produced
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)
A document outlining the scope and purpose of a development project, describing the environmental context, suggesting alternative approaches to the project, and analyzing the environmental impact of each alternative
Thermal shock
A dramatic change in water temperature that can kill organisms
density independent factor
A factor that has the same effect in an individuals probability of survival and the amount of reproduction at any population size
Density dependent factor
A factor that influences an individuals probability of survival and reproduction in a manner that depends on the size of a population
National wildlife refuge
A federal public land managed for the primary purpose of protecting wildlife.
Individual transferable quota (ITQ)
A fishery management program in which individual fishers are given a total allowable catch of dish in a season that they can either catch or sell.
boreal forest
A forest biome made up primarily of confirmerions evergreen trees that can tolerate cold wonders and short growing seasons
petroleum
A fossil fuel that occurs in underground deposits, made of liquid mixtures of hydrocarbons, water, or sulfur
Terrestrial biome
A geographic region categorized by a particular combination of average annual temperature, annual precipitation, and distinctive plant growth forms on land
world Health Organization (WHO)
A global institution dedicated to the improvement of human health by monitoring and assessing health trends and providing medical advice to countries.
Percholerates
A group of harmful chemicals used for rocket fuel
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
A group of industrial conpuhnds ised to manjfacture plastics and insulate electrical transformers, and responsble for manh enviromental problems
Fecal California bacteria
A grpup of generally harmless microorganisms in himan intensrines thag harmless microorganisms in human intestants that can serve as an indicator species for potentially harmful microorganisms assosiated with contaminated sewage
Tree plantation
A large area typically planted with a single rapidly growing tree species.
fault Zone
A large expansive rock where a fault has occurred
concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO)
A large indoor or outdoor structure designed for maximum output
Gyres
A large-scale pattern of water circulation that moves clockwise in the northern hemisphere and counterclockwise in the southern atmosphere
Law of conservation of matter
A law of nature stating that matter cannot be created or destroyed, it can only change form
Septage
A layer if fairly clear water found in the middle of a septic tank
Genuine Progress Indicator (GPI)
A measure of economic status that includes personal consumption, income distribution, levels of higher education, resource depletion, pollution, and the health of the population
Human Development Index (HDI)
A measurement index that combines three basic measures if human status: life expectancy, knowledge, and education.
clear-cutting
A method of harvesting trees that involves removing all or almost all of the trees in an areas
polar molecule
A molecule in which one side is more positive and the other side is more negative
Spring
A natural source of water formed when water percolates up to the grounds surface.
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)
A nucleic acid, the genetic material that contains the code for reproducing the components of the next generation, and which organisms pass on their offspring.
Type I survivorship curve
A pattern of survival over time in which there is a high survival rate but large die off with old age
Aquifer
A permeable layer of rock and sediment that contains groundwater
Stakeholder
A person or organization with an interest in a particular place or issue
persistent pesticides
A pesticide that remains in the environment for a long period of time
selective pesticides
A pesticide that targets a narrow range of organisms
Eutrophication
A phenomenon where a body of water becomes rich in nutrients
Gene
A physical location on the chromosomes within each cell of an organism
Environmental Migration Plan
A plan that outlines how a developer will address concerns raised by a project's impact on the environment.
Zoning
A planning tool used to separate industry and business from residential neighborhoods.
primary pollutants
A polluting compound that comes directly out of a smokestack, exhausted pipe, or natural emission source.
secondary pollutants
A primary pleurant that has undone transformations in the presence of sunlight, water, oxygen, and other compounds
eminent domain
A principle that grants government the power to acquire a property at fair market value if the owner does not wish to sell it.
Distillation
A process of desalination in which water is boiled and the resulting stream is captured and condensed to yield pure water
Reverse osmosis
A process of desalination in which water is forced through a thin semipermeable membrane at high pressure
Nitrogen fixation
A process of which some organisms can convert nitrogen gas molecules directly into ammonia
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
A program of the United Nations responsible for gathering environmental information, conducting research, and assessing environmental problems
surface tension
A property of water that results from the cohesion of water and that creates a sort of skin on the waters surface
algal bloom
A rapid increase in the algal population of a waterway.
chemical reaction
A reaction that occurs when atoms separates from molecules or recombine with other molecules
profundal zone (lake)
A region of water where sunlight does not reach, below the limnetic zone in very deep lakes
rain shadow
A region with dry conditions found on the leeward side of a mountain range as a result of humid winds from the ocean causing precipitation on the windward side
urban growth boundaries
A restriction on development outside a designated area
El Niño-Southern Oscillation
A reversal of wind and water currents in the South Pacific
Ozone (O3)
A secondary pollutant made up of three oxygen atoms bound together
Fukushima Daiichi
A series of equipment failures, nuclear meltdowns, and releases of radioactive materials at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant following the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami on 11 March 2011.200,000 people were forced to leave their homes indefinitely. On 16 December 2011, Japanese authorities declared the plant to be stable, although it would take decades to decontaminate the surrounding areas and to decommission the plant altogether. Marine and groundwater contamination was caused by backflow and deliberate discharge of radioactive waste water from the plant.
smart growth
A set of principles for community planning that focuses on strategies to encourage the development of sustainable, healthy communities.
Phenotype
A set of traits expressed by an individual
Green revolution
A shift in agricultural practices in the 20th century that included new management techniques , mechanization, fertilization, irrigation, and improvement crop varieties, and that results in increased food output
nonpoint source
A siffusw area that produces pollution
septic systems
A small and simple sewage treatment system, made up of a septic tank and a leach field, often used in rural homes
Lipid
A smaller organic biological molecule that does not mix with water
Indicator species
A species that indicates wherer or not disease-causing pathogens are likely to be present
K-selected species
A species with a low intrinsic growth rate that causes the population to increase slowly until it reaches carrying capacity
Fish ladder
A stair-like structure that allows migrating fish to get around a dam
closed system
A system in which matter and energy exchanges do not occur across boundaries.
ground source heat pump
A technology that transfers heat from the grouns to the building
Manure lagoon
Human-made pond lined with rubber built to handle large quantities of manure produced by livestock
Adaptation
A trait that improves an individuals fitness
Volcano
A vent in the surface of Earth that emits ash, gases, or molten lava
age structure diagram
A visual representation of the number in a specific age group (usually divided into males and females)
Acid precipitation
AKA acid rain high concentration of sulfuric acids and nitric acid in precipitation from reactions between water vapor and sulfur and nitrogen oxides in the atmosphere.
synthetic fertilizer
AKA inorganic fertilizer fertilizer produced commercially, normally with the use of fossil fuels.
levee
Ab enlarged bank built up on each side of a river
Cation exchange capacity (CEC)
Ability of a certain soil to absorb and release cations.
Examples of Biotic components
Humus, microorganisms, bacteria, earthworms, macroinverabrates, root, fungi
Acid deposition
Acids deposited on earth as rain and snow or as gases and particles that attach to the surface of plants, soil, and water
explanation for increased fire risks
Adds to fuel load (intensity) - increased leaf litter - increased density of large trees - increased brush and small trees - species composition change Adds to spreading the fire [extent] - increased density of trees - increased density of under-story growth - Ladder trees leading to crown fires
Advantages and disadvantages of sludge and bio-solids after being spread on agricultural fields
Advantages - used as fertilizer - increases crop yield / crop revenue - improves soil quality - reduces need for disposal of sludge/biosolids in landfills or by incineration - Generates revenue from sale of sludge/solids - may be less expensive than commercial fertilizer - may be least expensive disposal option Disadvantage -foul odors - surface water and groundwater contamination by nutrients, heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, hormones, pathogens -soil contamination by heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, hormones, pathogens -crops contamination by heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, pathogen - lack of public acceptance
"using nuclear power plants avoids the release of greenhouse gases"
Agree - fossil fuels are not combusted - the normal operation involves no combustion Disagree - GHGs are released when foddil fuels are used during the mining, transportation, enrichment processes of fuel, construction, and decommissioning of nuclear power plants - water vapor is released
Causes Nitrous Oxide
Agriculture soils (69%) combustion (11%) Industrial production (9%) manure management (5%)
Explain how the properties of air affect the way it moves in the atmosphere
Air rises when it becomes less dense and sinks when it becomes more dense. Warm air has a higher saturation point for water vapor than cold air. Changes in air pressure result in adiabatic cooling or heating;when water condenses it emits heat, which is known as latent heat release.
Ethanol
Alcohol made by converting starches and sugars from plant material into alcohol
Community
All of the populations of organisms within a given area
health effects of aluminum (source, health, remediation)
Aluminum Location: Soil; naturally occurring element Aluminum Environmental Impact: More soluble if acidic conditions Toxic to fish unless pH>5.5; High levels of Al toxic to plants; does not bioaccumulate Aluminum Human health Affects: Pulmonary problems; The FDA has ruled Al in cooking utensils, foil, antacids, and antiperspirants safe Aluminum Prevention/remediate: Prevent: maintain pH in ecosystems by preventing acid deposition Remediate: increase the pH with buffers to decrease solubility Arsenic Loaction: Soil, Water; naturally occurring element
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
An agency of the U.S Department of Labor, responsible for the enforcement of health and safety regulation
Carbon sequestration
An approach to stabilizing greenhouse gases by removing CO2 from the atmosphere
freshwater wetlands
An aquatic biome that is submerged or saturated by water for at least part of each year, but shallow enough to support emergent vegetation
Unconfined aquifer
An aquifer made of porous rock covered by soil out of which can easily flow
confined aquifer
An aquifer surrounded by a layer of impermeable rock of clay that impedes water flow
Divergent Plate boundary
An area beneath the ocean where tectonic plates move away from each other
Cone of Depression
An area lacking groundwater due to rapid withdrawal by a well.
Exurb area
An area similar to a suburb, but unconnected to any central city or densely populated area.
Greenhouse Warming Potential
An estimate of how much a molecule of any compound can contribute to global warming over a period of a hundred years relative to the molecule of CO2
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
An international program that works in 166 countries around the world to advocate change that will help people obtain a better life through development
Volatile organic compounds (voc)
An organic compound that evaporated at typical atmospheric temperatures
genetically modified organisms (GMO)
An organism produced by copying genes from a species with a desirable trait and inserting them into another species
Arsenic (source, health, remediation)
Arsenic Source: Used in wood preservation; chemical processes; petroleum mining, mining and smelting. Was formerly used in pesticides, rodenticides, and herbicides. Humans usually ingest arsenic in food or drinking water Arsenic Environmental Impact: Plant toxicity: wilt, brown, and die Animal toxicity: causes aquatic organisms to have decreased growth; metabolic failure in many species Arsenic human health factors: Acute-anemia,nausea Chronic- carcinogen, teratogen, likely mutagen, induces chronic fatigue, gastrointestinal disease,anemia, death. Acceptable levels in US drinking water is 10 ppb Arsenic Prevention/remediate: Prevent- remove arsenic from drinking water; government regulatory action; use other wood preservatives Remediate- phytoremediation with brake fern, which readily removes arsenic; some bacteria can oxidize arsenic
Explain the mixing of surface ocean circulation
As ocean water flows from the Gulf of Mexico to the North Atlantic, water evaporates or freezes, and this causes the remaining water to have a high salt concentration and therefore a high density. This sense water sinks to the bottom of the ocean and later comes back to the surface near the equator.
Health effects of Asbestos (source, health, remediation)
Asbestos Heat resistant mineral fiber. Sources of asbestos 1. Soil 2. Insulators Health effects of asbestos 1. Lung cancer 2. Lung scarring 3. Mesothelioma Ways to reduce the risks of asbestos 1. Use alternative materials 2. Simply leave asbestos alone
Identify the factors that drive atmospheric convection currents
Atmospheric convection currents are driven by the intense sunlight that strikes Earth near the tropics. The solar energy warms the surface of the earth, which causes moist air to rise, cool, and release water as precipitation. As the air continues to rise, it reaches the top of the troposphere. The air, which is now cold and dry, moves towards the poles until it descends at approximately 30 degrees north or 30 degrees south latitude. As it descends back to Earth's surface, the air warms and then moves back toward the equator.
describe how environmental change can alter species distributions
Because a species niche represents the environmental conditions under which a species can live, environmental change can cause a change is the distribution of a species
describe how Earth's rotation affects the movement of the air currents.
Because the surface of Earth travels faster near the equator than near the poles, the Coriolis effect causes convection currents traveling north and south to be deflected, thereby creating trade winds, westerlies and easterlies
Benzene (source, health, remediation)
Benzene Location: Air; water; naturally in petroleum; produced by forest fires and volcanoes Benzene Source: Used as a solvent to make plastics, rubber, and synthetic textiles; gasoline combustion; petroleum refining; ETS Benzene Environmental Impact: Toxic to aquatic species; kills plants by damaging roots and leaves; does not bioaccumulate Benzene Human Health Factors: Acute-anemia, depressed nervous and immune function Chronic-cancer, gene mutation, known human carcinogen Benzene Prevention/Remediate: Prevent-avoid spills Remediate-can be broken down by bacteria
quantify biodiversity
Biodiversity, can be quantified using a variety of measurements, including species richness, species evenness, or both. Such measurements provide scientists with a baseline they can use to determine how much an ecosystem has been affected by a natural of anthropocentric disturbance.
Euphotic zone
Brightly lit middle zone that gets little sunlight does not contain photosynthic organisms, levels high /npp high
carbon cycle equation
C6H1206+6O2--> 6CO2 + 6H20 + energy
chemical used in food sources
CAFO - Concentreated animal feeding operations FISHERY - commercially harbestable population of fish in a region FISHERY COLLAPSE - decline of a fish population by 90% --> overharvesting BYCATCH - catch of nontarget species ITQ - fishers have a total fish anota AQUACULTURE - farming of aquatic organisms ENERGY SUBSIDY - fossil fuel energy and human energy input per calorie of food produced GREEN REVOLUTION - shift in agricultural practices with new techniquws like mechanization
CFC's (source, health, remediation)
CFC's Location: Air-move from troposphere to stratosphere CFC's Sources: Used as solvents; propellants; refrigerants; foam blowing agents. Includes methyl chloroform (solvent), halons (fire extinguishers), methyl bromide (crop fumigant), Carbon tetrachloride (solvent) and freons (refrigerant) CFC's Environmental impact: Chlorine radicals convert ozone to oxygen gas; Increased UV radiation pass through stratosphere; Damage to living organisms due to increased UV CFC's are greenhouse gases CFC's Human Health Factors: Health effects indirect; due to increased UV radiation; Increased Skin Cancer; Cataracts; immunosuppresion CFC's Prevention/Remediation: Prevent- use other refrigerants and propellants; government regulatory action. Difficult to remediate
health effects of CO (source, health, remediation)
CO Location: Air CO Source: Incomplete combustion of fossil fuels; gas furncae/space heaters; gas/wood stoves; ETS; car exhaust CO Environmental Impact: Minimal environmental impact except human health; no direct effect on plants CO Human Health Effects: Blood's ability to carry oxygen is impaired. Acute-fatigue, impaired vision. Headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion High concentrations are fatal CO Prevention/Remedation: Prevent-maintain wood gas appliances, catalytic converter in autos, decrease use fossil fuels; government regulatory action Remediate-increase ventilation; improve efficiency
Carbonate rock weathering cycle
CO2 + H20 + CaCO3 --> CA2+ 2HCO3-
health effects of CO2 (source, health, remediation)
CO2 Location: Air CO2 Source: Combustion of biomass, solid waste, or fossil fuels CO2 Human Health Effects: Very little unless CO2 increases dramatically as in a confined space; then causes acidosis. Climate Change due to Co2 will have more human health impacts CO2 Prevention/remediation: Prevent-government regulatory action; use alternative energy resources; maintain forests; improve energy efficiency to decrease fossil fuel consumption; mass transit, carpooling, bicycles to decrease CO2 emissions from vehicles Remediate- plant vegetion, pump carbon dioxide into underground storage
Cadmium (source, health, remediation)
Cadmium Location: soil; naturally occuring element Cadmium Source: Electroplating; smelting; chemical processes; incineration Cadmium Environmental Impacts: Toxic to plants and wildlife; bioaccumulates in liver and kidney Cadmium Human Health Factors: Acute-affects repiratory system, muscle contractions Chronic-Carcinogen, teratogen, affects growth; reproduction; kidney disease; hypertension Cadmium Prevention/remediate: Prevent-government regulatory action; use an alternative metal in chemical processes Remediate- Phytoremediation with pennycress; bioremediation with bacteria
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Cause: Evaporation of fuels, solvent, paints improper combustion of fuels such as gasonline Effects: a precursor of Ozone formation
Ozone (O3)
Cause: Secondary pollution (formed when combined with sunlight, water, and oxygen, VOC's, NOx Effect: impairs lungs and respiratory tract a degrading agent to plant surfaces damages materials such as rubber and plastic
lead (Pb)
Cause: gasoline additive, oil and gasoline, coal, old paint Effect: Impairment in Central nervous system learning and concentration disabilities.
(volcano vocab) cinder cones sheild volcanos composite volcanoes mud volcanoes splatter cones
Cinder Cone - a cone formed around a volcanic vent by fragments of lava thrown out during eruptions. sheild volcanos- A shield volcano is a type of volcano usually composed almost entirely of fluid lava flows. It is named for its low profile, resembling a warrior's shield lying on the ground. composite volcanoes- A stratovolcano, also known as a composite volcano, is a conical volcano built up by many layers (strata) of hardened lava, tephra, pumice, and volcanic ash. Mud Volcanos- a small vent or fissure in the ground discharging hot mud. Spatter cones- are one of the main types of volcanic type landforms. They are made from lava that was ejected from a vent. The spatter cones are easy to distinguish especially during eruption. Unlike some volcanoes that produce lava flow during eruption, the eruptions in spatter cones are similar to explosion.
Interpret climate diagrams
Climate diagrams illustrate monthly patterns of temperature and precipitation during the year. They also illustrate the growing plants are more constrained by temperature or precipitation
why do small isolated islands have a greater extinction rate then other islands?
Close islands will have high immigration rates and support more species. By similar reasoning, large islands, with their lower extinction rates, will have more species than small ones -- again everything else being equal (which it frequently is not, for larger islands often have a greater variety of habitats and more species for that reason).
health effects of copper (source, health, remediation)
Copper Location: Soil; water Copper Source: Copper sulfate-algicide Copper Environmental Impacts: Plant micronutrient. Highly toxic to amphibians; bioaccumulates in some species Copper Human Health Effects: Acute-nausea, vomiting, cough, headache, difficulty breathing Chronic-liver cirrhosis; low blood pressure; fetal mortality, kidney and brain necrosis Copper Prevention/remediation: Prevent-use mechanical or biological methods to remove algae Remediate-electric current can remove copper from contaminated soil
Describe the goals and function of a solid waste landfill
In the US most solid waste is buried in landfills. contemporary landfills keep the garbage protected to keep water and air from escaping The potential of toxic leachate to contaminating waterways are a major concern. it also generates methane gas. siting of landfills often raises issues of environmental justice.
explain how carbon cycles within ecosystems
In the carbon cycle, producers take up CO2 for photosynthesis and transfer the carbon to consumers and decomposers. Some of this carbon is converted back into CO2 by respiration, while the rest is lost to sedimentation and burial. The extraction and combustion of fossil fuels, as well as the destruction of forests, returns CO2 to the atmosphere.
describe how water cycles within ecosystems
In the water cycle, water evaporates from water bodies and transpires from plants. The resulting water vapor cools and forms clouds, which ultimately drop water back to Earth in the form of precipitation. When the water falls onto the land, it can evaporate, be taken up by plants and transpired, percolate into the groundwater, or run off along the soil surface and ultimately return to lakes and oceans.
Health effects of Indoor Ozone (source, health, remediation)
Indoor Ozone The air quality within and around a building. Sources of indoor ozone 1. Tiny living organisms 2. Dust mites 3. Animal dander Health risks of indoor ozone 1. Sick building syndrome Ways to reduce the risks of indoor ozone 1. Low toxicity material 2. Monitoring air quality 3. Keeping rooms clean 4. Providing adequate ventilation
Sustainable agriculture
Intercropping: two or more crops in the same field Crop Watering: crops rotated from season to season - ex) corn and nitrogen - fix soy soil Agroforestry: intercropping to reduce erosion Contour plowing: Plowing and harvesting are done parallel to the tropographic contours no-till: farmers do not turn soil between seasons --> may use paraperennials IPM: minimes pesticides - rotation / intercropping - regular inspection to determine when pesticides should be used
research and climate projections
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) (UN)
Benthic zone
Lake / in habited by mostly be composers bottom or floor of lake
Eutrophic
Lake with a large or excessive supply of plant nutrients, mostly nitrates and phosphates. Compare mesotrophic lake, oligotrophic lake.
Mesotrophic
Lake with a moderate supply of plant nutrients. Compare eutrophic lake, oligotrophic lake.
Profundal zone
Lake/ deep open water where it is to dark for photosynthesis low npp
Limnetic zone
Lake/ open sunight away from shore, high npp
Litoral zone
Lake/near the shore and consists of the shallow sunlight waters, high biodiversity, high npp
explain the process of aquatic succession
Lakes and ponds experience sedimentation over long periods of time and this slowly fills in the basin. Over thousands of years, the lakes and ponds can be slowly converted into terrestrial habits
Landfills Pros and cons
Leachate: Water that leaches through the solid waste and removes chemicals from it Sanitary landfill: little contamination: > clay/plastic lining, leachate collection, cap > Minimized water inputs > compacted and aerated with soil Tiping fee: Fee charged for disposing of material in landfill/ incinerated Cocation: Ideally somewhere rich in clay, far from people and water bodies (near lower income neighborhoods NIMBY) Pros - waste covered with dirt - systems control leaching - methane collected - cheaper than others - can be reclaimed Cons - leaching - NIMBY/ justice - land prices - plastics that don't degrade (not in unperfect positions - methane release from anaerobic decomp Good - unrecyclable, plastic, paper, glass Bad - metals, toxins, electronics, organic material, batteries
Health effects of Lead (source, health, remediation)
Lead A chemical element in the carbon group, a heavy metal. Sources of lead 1. Soil 2. Old-paint 3. Dust 4. Drinking water Health effects of lead 1. Convulsions 2. Coma 3. Kidney, brain, and nervous system damage 4. Behavior problems 5. Sometimes fatal Ways to reduce the risks of lead 1. Clean often to keep areas dust free 2. Don't remove lead based paint yourself 3. DIY test kit
lead location: air, soil, water
Lead source: leaded gasoline, leaded paint, leaded soler, leaded shot sinkers, contaminated soil, smelters, incinerators, utilities, automobile batteries Lead environmental impacts: Plants-decreased growth; decreased photosynthesis Animals-CNS damage; sterility; effects similar to human exposures Lead human health effects: Acute- abdominal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, high blood pressure; death Bioaccumulates in bone Chronic-developmental retardation, impaired IQ, attention deficit, hyperactivity, learning disorders, aggression, carcinogen, damages liver, kidney, thyroid and immune system Adults- high blood pressure, digestive and nerve disorders, memory problems Acceptable levels in US drinking water is 20 ppb Lead Prevention/remediation: In US, leaded gasoline, lead shot, leaded solder, and leaded paint banned in the US In older homes- replace copper plumbing that may contain lead solder and remove lead paint (house built before 1978) Remediate - phytoremediation of soil with sunflowers
Safe drinking water act
Legislation that sets the national standards for safe drinking water
Clean water Act
Legislation that supports the "protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and recreation in and on water" bu maintaining and, when necessary, restoring the chemical, physical, and biological properties of surface waters.
MTBE (location, source, environmental impacts, human health effects, remediation)
MTBE Location: water MTBE source: gasoline additive that promotes complete combustion to reduce CO and O3 release MTBE Environmental impacts: Persistent in the environment, no studies indicate specific damage to wildlife. MTBE human health effects: not considered a threat to human health at this time; inhalation may be linked to lung cancer MTBE Prevention/remediation: prevent- prevent leaking from underground storage tanks; use an alternative oxygenate in fuel Remediate-chemical processing of contaminated soil and water
Methane (location, source, environmental impact, remediation)
Methane location: Air Methane source: naturally produced during decomposition. Anthropogenic sources are decomposition sources are decomposition in landfills, wastewater treatment, and livestock production. Emitted by the production and transport of fossil fuels. Methane environmental impacts: greenhouse gas-20 times greater heat holding capacity than CO2. Methane human health effects: Human health impacts related to global warming Methane prevention/remediation: Prevent-government regulatory action; use methane from decomposition as energy source
Health effects of Mold (source, health, remediation)
Mold/mildew/infectious bacteria Wooly growth on decaying/damp organic matter by fungus. Sources of mold 1. Fungi 2. Spread through moisture Health effects of mold 1. Legionnaires' disease 2. Asthma 3. Respiratory illness Ways to reduce the risks of mold 1. Keep relative humidity indoors below 60 percent 2. Use a dehumidifier to dry out the air 3. Remove mold by scrubbing area with bleach or hydrogen peroxide
discuss species interactions that cause neutral or positive effects on both species
Mutualisms ate interactions that benefits two interacting species by increasing the changes of survival or reproduction for both. One of the most common mutualisms is the interaction between flowering plants and their pollinators. A second well-known mutualism is between acacia trees and the ants that defend the trees in exchange for food and a place to live. Commensalisms are interactions in which one species benefits but the other is neither harmed nor helped. Examples include birds perching on trees and marine fish using coral reefs for protection from predators.
Chemicals
NEUROTOXINS ex: Nervous system, Kidney, brain effects: lead, mercury, insecticides CARCINOGENS ex: radon, arsenic, asbestos, PCB, PVC effect: Risk of cancer, damage to cells TETRAGENS ex: alcohol, thalidomide effects: birth defects ALLERGENS ex: peanuts, milk Effects: Breathing problems ENDOCRINE DISRUPTORS ex: Atrazine (corn-based), DDT, Birth control effect: Hormonal imbalences
buildup of photo chemical smog
NO + O --> O + O2 --> O3 (ozone) NO --> photo smog NO + VOCs --> phtotochemical oxidants
Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
NO - colorless, odorless NO2 pungent, reddish-brown gas (78% of atmospher is N2 gas Sources: Combustion in the atmosphere (fossil fuels, wood, and other biomass) forest fires, lightning, Microbial action in soil Effects: Respiratory issues leads to photochemical smog (ozone causer) coverts to Nitric acid in the atmosphere, harms vegetation, and aquatic life
National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
NOAA is an agency that enriches life through science. Works from the surface of the sun to the depths of the ocean floor as we work to keep citizens informed of the changing environment around them. gives daily weather forecasts, severe storm warnings, and climate monitoring to fisheries management, coastal restoration and supporting marine commerce, NOAA's products and services support economic vitality and affect more than one-third of America's gross domestic product. NOAA's dedicated scientists use cutting-edge research and high-tech instrumentation to provide citizens, planners, emergency managers and other decision makers with reliable information they need when they need it.
Catalytic converters
NOx --> O2 + N2 CO + O2 --> CO2 CxH2 + O2 --> CO2 + H20 - *a converter that uses a platinum-iridium catalyst to oxidize pollutants and carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide and water
NOx (location, source, and impact)
NOx Location: Air; water NOx source: fossil fuel combustion- particulary gasoline; burning of solid wastes; industrial processes. Primary air pollutant that leads to photochemical smog N2O from feedlots is a greenhouse gas. Water pollutant derived from movement of fertilizers NOx Environmental impacts: Forms nitric acid (HNO3) in atmosphere- contributes to acid deposition. Directly damages cuticles on plants so damages leaves. Reduces crop yields. Reacts with sunlight to form photochemical smog. Eutrophication when in the form of nitrites (NO2) or nitrates (NO3). Decreases visibility. Low pH in aquatic systems, may stress sensitive organisms; increases AL solubility and toxicity; decreases biodiversity by reducing food available at lower trophic level.s
Thermal Inversion
Normal: col air on top --> warm on bottom. sunlight reflects back Thermal: Cool air on top -- relatively warm smog -- cool air (gets trapped- happens most at night)
Describe the patterns of surface ocean circulation
Ocean currents are driven but a combination of temperature, gravity, prevailing winds, the Coriolis effect, and the location of continents. Together, prevailing winds and ocean currents distribute heat and precipitation around the globe
Oil (location, source, environmental impact, health effects, remediation)
Oil (petroleum) location: water Oil source: natural release; leaks from oil rigs, tankers, pipelines oil environmental impact: directly kills animals; suffocation of filter feeders; damage to habitat oil human health effects Toxicity related to specific chemicals in pretroleum oil prevention/remediation: prevent-government regulatory action; require double hulls on tankers remediate- oil degrading microbes
leading producers of Nitrogen Oxides
On road Vehicles Non-road equipment electricity generation fossil fuel combustion industrial processes
compare the reproductive strategies and survivorship curves of different species
Organisms have a range of reproductive patterns. At the extremes are r-rated species, which experience rapid population growth rates, and K-selected species, which experience high survivorship and slow population growth rates. Patterns of distributorship over the life span can be graphically represented as type l,ll, and lll survivorship curves
PCBs (location, source, environmental impact, health effects, remediation)
PCBs Location: Soil;water PCB's Source: solids and oily liquids used as lubricants, fire retardants, hydraulic fluids, adhesives, transformer fluids;landfills;incineration PCB's Environmental Impact: Highly persistent; bioaccumulate. Wildlife-deformities; high mortality rates;impairs reproduction PCBs human health effects: Acute - Acne-like skin eruptions; skin pigmentation; vision and hearing impairment; spasms Chronic- mutagen; carcinogen;teratogen;interferes with function of thyroid hormones. Bioacccumulates in liver, muscle and fat PCB's prevention/remediation: prevent-government regulatory action; use alternative materials remediation-high temperature incineration;bacterial bioremediation
organic
PRO - natural systems - maintain soil quality Con - difficult , time consuming - may be less efficent
PM (location, source, environmental impact, health effects, remediation)
Particulates (PM) Location: Air PM Source: Solid and liquid droplets in air; soot, dust, soil and smoke from erosion or combustion source PM Environmental Impact: If densely accumulate on plant leaves, can impair photosynthesis. If particles are acidic, contributes to acid deposition. May increase nutrient levels in surface water. Impairs visibility . Can damage and stain stone, which decreases the aesthetic value of monuments and statues PM Human Health Effects: Irritate respiratory tract, leading to coughing and difficulty breathing; exacerbates lung disease PM Prevention/remediation: Prevent-electrostatic precipitators, bag filter, cyclone collector; wet scrubber; government regulatory action; energy efficiency decreasing fossil fuel use
Phosphates (location, source, environmental impact, health effects, remediation)
Phosphates Location: water Phosphates Source: fertilizer; sewage effluent Phosphates environmental impact: eutrophication Phosphates Human health effects: none noted Phosphates prevention/remediation: Prevent-decrease non point runoff from agricultural areas; ban detergents that use phosphates; government regulatory action;aerate contaminated water
fertilizer increases
Phosphorous and nitrates of the soil
infectious Diseases: Historical
Plague: carried by bacteria on fleas Malaria: caused by protists originating in mosquitoes - still prevalent in Africa Tuberculosis: highly contagious, caused by bacterium that infects lungs -easily treatable by anibiotics, but some strains are resistant
Methods to lessen the problem of abandoned coal mines
Plant trees or other plants to restore cover/ reduce erosion Fill in/ fence off abandoned shafts to stop subsidence or reduce access Prevent acid mine drainage and leaching from sites using retaining ponds, berms, other BMPs Treat acid mine drainage with limestones Return tailings to evacuation sites Recontour the land Place gravel on surface to reduce wind erosion
Effects of HFI extended beyond fire reduction. name the positive and negative impacts of HFI
Positive Effect -increased removal medium and large/ small tree brush removal --> lead to economic growth in the lumber industry - increased removal of medium and large trees --> allow understory to develop into large trees, potentially enhancing forest habitat --> make additional timber avalibale to use (must indicate usage) --> result in thinned trees resistant to pests and disease/impede spread of diseases and pests - enhance economic value of the surrounding areas (housing, lower insurance) --> lower the cost of timber --> result in a change of aesthetic Negative effects - The removal of medium and large trees/ small tree brush removal will: --> reduce avalible habitate for other organisms in the forest biome --> allow timber companies to cit in areas remote from forest communities not threatened by forest fires --> cause a reduction in biodiversity --> increase soil erosion --> increase loggining practices --> reduce public input --> result in a change of asethetic
Explain the process of Primary succession
Primary succession occurs on surfaces that are initially devoid of soil, such as bare rock that is exposed after the retreat of glaciers or the cooled lava from a volcanic eruption. OVER TIME, PLANTS AND ANIMALS ARRIVE AT THE SITE AND MODIFY THE ENVIRONMENT, MAKING IT MORE FAVORABLE FOR OTHER SPECIES TO ARRIVE AND PERSIST
organic fertilizers
Pro - reused -adds to soil quality - cheap and accessible Con - difficult - not always accessible - waste runoff - non-specific
Synthetic fertilizers
Pro - specific -easy -available cons -fossil fuels - eutrification -price
Irrigation
Pros - allows land to be more productive - transforms unstable land con - waterlogging -salinization - decreased aquifer levels
GMOs
Pros - greater yield less pesticides added nutrients CONs - decreased biodiversity - concerns about safety
CAFOS
Pros - max output - decreased land use Con - antibiotics -disease - waste disposal -ethics
Aquicultre Pro and cons
Pros - prevent fishery collaps - more food, esp. for developing cons - wastewater pumped into natural waters - fish escape
Regulations of solid waste
RCRA: reduce production of hazardous waste (1) Cradle-to-grave: analysis of a products life -manufacture, use and disposial strategies to reduce impact (2) Track + ensure proper disposal (3) Mitigation - prevention CERLA/ SUPERFUND: remediates hazardous waste (1) Imposes tax on industrial waste (2) cleans up/ reclaimed abandoned hazardous waste sites (3) love canal: hazardous waste landfill--> filled in and developed --> caused cancers after rain contaminated water (and other issues) --> problem became superfund sight and people evacuated (4)Federal organization National priorities list (NPS) - list of contaminated sites eligible for cleanup (EPA) BROWNFIEDS (1) state/ local funded (2) less serious than superfund sites (3) Like superfunds, industrial sites that may require cleanup before use (4) Old factories, industrial areas, gas stations, landfills, etc. RCRA: resource conservation and recovery act CERCLA: comprensive Environmental response, combenstion, and liberatarian liability assosiation. Integrated waste management: Holistic approach including reduction, management, and disposal strategies to reduce impact
Describe the three R's
REDUCE - Waste minimization including source reduction which minimizes waste early in design + manufacture REUSE - using a product that would otherwise be discarded; may include additional energy RECYCLE -products converted back into raw material and used (requires time and energy) > closed-loop: same product > Open-loop: different product COMPOST - creation of humus under controlled conditions - imprives soil
Radioactive Isotopes (location, source, environmental impact, health effects, remediation)
Radioactive isotopes location: Air; soil;water Radioactive isotops source: naturally occuring; used in medicine, nuclear power, nuclear weapons, tracers Radioactive istopes Environmental impact: Increased genetic damage due to radiation radioactive isotopes human health effects: Acute-radiation sickness; death Chronic-cancers Radioactive isotopes prevention/remediation: Prevent- government regulatory action; use alternative materials
health effects of Radon (Source, effects, and ways to reduce radon)
Radon A radioactive gas that can enter the home through drains and the cracks in foundation. Sources of radon 1. Decaying uranium found in soil can find its way into buildings and accumulate at unsafe levels Health effects of radon 1. Lung cancer 2. Kills 21,000 Americans per year Ways to reduce the risks of radon 1. Air quality testing with DIY radon test kits 2. Effectively seal off the bottom of houses
describe the 3 R's
Reduce, reuse, recycle move materials away from the waste stream. Reduce refers to activities that encourage a reduction in the use and disposal of materials. Reuse refers to using an item multiple times whenever possible, Recycling refers to returning and object to a manufacturing plant where it is turned into the same of another in order to least envito imact to the greatest
ecological sustainability forestry
Remove trees from a forest in ways that do not unduly affect the viability of other trees
mitigation
Repairing/Rehabilitating a damaged ecosystem or compensation for damage. Most often by providing a substitute or replacement area; frequently involves wetland ecosystems
responses to increased nitrate levels and effects on water quality
Response to increased nitrate levels - cause excessive algal growth or algal blooms - cause cultural eutrophication - speed eutrophication process Effect on water quality - algae die and microbes deplete the water of available oxygen (DO) during decomposition of algae (hypoxic/anoxic conditions) - algal blooms lead to reduced light penetration - algal blooms caused taste/order problems
leading producers of PM
Road dust industrial processes electricity generation fires residential wood combustion
SO2 (location, source, environmental impact, health effects, remediation)
SO2 Location: Air SO2 source: coal combustion; industrial processes; smelting; petroleum refineries; natural sources such as volcanoes SO2 environmental Impact: Acid deposition when combines with water vapor in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid (H2SO4). Directly damages cuticles on plants so damages leaves; weathers carbonate rocks; acidifes ecosystems; reduces crop yield. Low pH in aquatic systems may stress sensitive organisms; increases AL solubility and toxicity; decreases biodiversity by reducing food available at lower trophic levels. Damages buildings, statues, and monuments. May create sulfur haze which reflects sunlight resulting in global cooling. Decreases visibility SO2 human health effects: respiratory difficulty; exacerbates lung and heart disease SO2 prevention/remediation: prevent-wash coal; use anthracite (less S); increase energy efficiency; decrease fossil fuel use; fluidized bed combustion; coal liquefaction; coal gasification; use natural gas; lime scrubbers; pollution credits and other government regulatory action; decreases fossil fuel use and increase energy efficiency Remediate- treat acidified ecosystems with lime or ammonia
Examples of aBiotic components
Sand, silt, clay, water, air, nutrients (N,P,K compounds), decomposing parent material, minerals, rocks, pebbles
Drip Irrigation
Saves water and fertilizer by allowing water to drip slowly. Advantages: Efficiently waters plants b/c of controlled delivery, uses less water, and installation does not require excavation Disadvantages: Requires flush-outs on a monthly basis
Explain the process of secondary succession
Secondary succession occurs in areas that have been disturbed but have not lost their soil. A common example is the bare slop left behind when farmers stop planting crops in a field. Over time, plants and animal colonize the site, alter the environmental conditions and favor the persistence of other species
Water (location, source, environmental impact, health effects, remediation)
Sediment location: water Sediment source: deforestation/leading to erosion. Agricultural erosion. Natural weathering of rock. Mining Sediment Environmental Impacts: Increased water turbidity. Decreases photosynthesis due to decreased light penetration; sediment may cover benthic organisms; sediment may clog gills of filter feeders; may cover rocks in salmon spawning sites in streams Sediment human health effects: none- its a water quality issue Sediment prevention/remediation: Prevent- government regulatory action; sediment buffers when constructing; erosion control methods used in agriculture and mining
What is sick-building syndrome? Why is it becoming a common problem?
Sick-building syndrome describes when chemicals inside a building start causing the people inside of it acute health problems like headaches, nausea, odor sensitivity, dizziness, and more. It is becoming a more common problem because more and more companies are using VOC's and other pollutant chemicals in their products that people often use inside their homes and offices.
Metamorphic Breakdown of carbonate
Sio2 + CaCo3 --> Co2 + CaSio3
Particulate Matter (PM)
Solid or liquid particles suspended in the air concentration of 400ppm is steadily increasing in the atmosphere Causes: combustion of coal, oil, and diesel and biofuel (manure and wood) agriculture, road construction, and other soil, soot, or dust moving activities. Volcanoes, forest fires, dust-storms Effects: respiratory issues and cardiovascular disease. premature death reduce visibility, and contributes to haze and smog
Nitrogen cycle
Step 1: Nitrogen Fixation --nitrogen must be present in ammoina (NH3) or (NO3-) -atmospheric nitrogen can be converted, mostly done by soil bacteria (rhizobium) -nitrogen fixing bacteria associated with legumes Step 2: Nitrification -soil bacteria converts ammonium (NH4+) into nitrate (NO3) Step 3: Assimilation --plants absorb ammonium (NH3), ammonia ions (NH4+), and nitrate ions (NO3-) through their roots -heterotrophs obtain nitrogen when they consume dead plants Step 4: Ammonification -decomposing bacteria convert dead organisms and other waste to ammonia (NH3)or ammonium ions (NH4+) which can be reused by plants Step 5: Denitrification -specialized bacteria (anaerobic) convert ammonia back into nitrites and nitrates and then into nitrogen gas (N2) and nitrous oxide gas (N2O)
secondary succession
Succession following a disturbance that destroys a community without destroying the soil
What are the 6 major air pollutants?
Sulfur dioxide, Nitrogen Oxide, Carbon Monoxide, PM (particulate matter), lead, and Ozone. SNCPLO snakes Nap Cause Potatoes love Oil
1980-Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act: Superfund
Superfund is a United States federal government program designed to fund the cleanup of sites contaminated with hazardous substances and pollutants. ... It was established as the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA).
Describe how economic health depends on the availability of natural capital and basic human welfare
Sustainable systems must include a consideration of externalities. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is the value of all products and services produced in a year in a given country. Genuine progress indicator (GPI) includes measures a personal consumption, income distribution, levels of higher education, resource depletion, pollution, and health of the population. Economic assets, or capital, can come from natural systems on Earth from humans, or from the manufactured products made by humans. Valuing all three kinds of capital is essential to systems that are sustainable.
Causes Urban Sprawl
TRANSPORTATION - increase use of/ reliance on automobiles - improve/ expanded roads - Low gas prices promote driving -telecommuting has made it possible to work remotely ECONOMIC - increasing wealth/affluence providing choice - higher taxes in inner city - Higher land/Property costs in city vs. less expensive land prices outside the city (cannot earn both) - tax deductions for home mortgages interests - jobs move out and employees follow - home buying subsidies/ reduced interest rates - Lack of/poor city-reguinal planning: (urban centers plan in isolation; lack of cohesive plan for growth) - lower cost of living in the suburbs QUALITY OF LIFE - desire for property/ yard / lower density - better quality suburban schools - High crime rates in the inner city - seek natural environment, aesthetic, cleaner air, less noise pollution
Steps a municipality could talk to encourage smart growth in order to limit urban sprawl
TRANSPORTATION - subsidize mass transit to encourage less automobile use - build bike paths to encourage less automobile use - Establish Moravia on highway and new construction - develop master plans which direct new residents/ jobs to busy hubs ZONING/DESIGN - modify zoning ordinance to encourage multi-use/ mixed land uses, create minimum development densities; promote compact communities; a range of housing opportunities; vertical development - establish development barriers surrounding cities and towns (urban village strategy): dense, multifamily - and single-family housinf near shops, chafes, & public transit - Foster communities that provide a sense of place: promote appreciation of unique environments, community involvement, and social context of cities - promote gentrification - promote reclamation of brownfields TAX INCENTIVE - Create tax incentives/ reduced taxes for living in city INCREASED AMENITIES - Enhance the quality of living/increase amenities in cities (E.G schools, parks, pools, recreation to encourage to remain in cities); efforts to reduce pollution/ improve air quality OTHER - carry out publication campaign
Explain how we define terrestrial biomes
Terrestrial biomes are categorized by the dominant plant forms that exist in a region
Identify the causes of consequences of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation
The El Niño-Southern Oscillation occurs when the typical trade winds from South America weaken or reverse, which allows the equatorial current that usually flows from east to west to reverse direction. When this happens, the upwelling along the western coast of South America is impeded, which affects climates around the world
Describe the approaches to measuring and achieving sustainability
The Human Development Index combines life expectancy, knowledge and education, and standard of living as a measure of human status. The Human Poverty Index measures the percentage of population in a country that is suffering from deprivation. A green tax can be used to internalize externalizes or reduce environmental harm. The triple bottom line accounts for three factors- economic, environmental, and social- when making decisions about environment and development. These ideas have led to a variety of policies in the United States for promoting sustainability.
1974-the Safe Drinking Water Act
The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) was originally passed by Congress in 1974 to protect public health by regulating the nation's public drinking water supply. ... US EPA, states, and water systems then work together to make sure that these standards are met.
1977-Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act
The Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA) is the primary federal law that regulates the environmental effects of coal mining in the United States. SMCRA created two programs: one for regulating active coal mines and a second for reclaiming abandoned mine lands.
Department of Energy (DOE)
The U.S. organization that advances the energy and economic security of the united states
joule
The amount of energy used when a 1-watt electrical device is turned on for 1 second
Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD)
The amount of oxygen a quantity of water uses over a period of time at specific temperatures
Crustal abundance
The average concentration of an element in the earths crust
covalent bond
The bond formed when elements share electrons
Phylogeny
The branching pattern of evolutionary relationships
Genotype
The complete set of genes in an individual
famine
The condition in which food insecurity is so extreme that a large number of deaths occur in a given area in a relatively short amount of time.
Nitrification
The conversation of ammonia (NH4+) into nitrate (NO2-) and then into nitrate (NO3-)
Hydroponic agriculture
The cultivation of plants in greenhouse conditions by immersing roots in nutrient-rich solution
Urban blight
The degradation of the built and social environments of the city that often accompanies and accelerates migration to the suburbs
kinetic energy
The energy of motion
Cation exchange
The exchange of key cations between soil and plants. Soils that have a good water retention typically has an efficient cation exchange. Clay particles increase the cation exchange. Too many clay particles will decrease porosity and permeability which could lead to waterlogging of the soil.
Explain the exponential growth model of populations, which produce a J-shaped curve
The exponential growth model describes rapid growth under ideal conditions when resources are not limited. The J-shaped curve occurs because the population initially grows slowly when few individuals are present to reproduce but then grows rapidly as the number of reproduction increases
Sense of place
The feeling that an area has a distinct and meaningful character
Population
The individuals that belong to the same species and live in a given area at a particular time
Explain the intermediate disturbance hypothesis
The intermediate disturbance hypothesis states that ecosystems experiencing intermediate levels of disturbance are more diverse than those with high it low disturbance levels.
Air pollution
The introduction of chemicals, particulate matter, or microorganisms into the atmospheric concentrations high enough to harm plants, animals, and materials such as buildings, or to alter ecosystems
Floodplain
The land adjacent to the river
Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)
The latitude that relieves the most intense sunlight, which causes the receives the moat intense sunlight, which causes the ascending branches of the two Hadley cells to converge
Asthenosphere
The layer of Earth located on the outer part of the mantle, made of semi-molten rock
Inversion layer
The layer of warm air that trans emissions in a thermal inversion
Maximum sustainable yield (MSY)
The maximum amount of renewable resources that can be harvested without compromising the future of the resource
Selective cutting
The method of harvesting trees that involves the removal of single trees or a relatively small number of trees from among many in a forest.
core
The most inner part of the earth mostly made up of Iron and nickle. It has a liquid outer layer and a solid inner layer
Chernobyl
The nuclear power plant in the Ukraine that suffered two large explosions which released massive amounts of radioactive materials. It is the worst nuclear accident in history and thousands were and continue to be impacted by the disaster.
population growth rate
The number of offspring an individual can produce in a given time period, minus the deaths of the individual or its offspring during the same period
pH
The number that indicates the relative strength of acids and bases in a substance
Pelagic
The pelagic zone exists in the open ocean, which consists of all water that is not close to the ocean floor.
Induced demand
The phenomenon in which an increase in the supply of goods caused demands to grow
Explain hoe phosphorus cycles within ecosystems
The phosphorus cycle involves a large pool of phosphoeus in rock that is formed by the precipitation of phosphate onto the ocean floor. Geologic forces can lift these sediments and form mountains. The phosphorus in the mountains can be made avalible to producers either by weathering or by mining. Producers assimilate phosphorous from the soil or water and consumers assimilate it when they eat producers. The waste producers. The waste products and dead bodies of organisms experience mineralization, which returns phosphorus to the environment where it can be ultimately transferred back to the ocean.
anaerobic respiration
The process by which cells convert glucose into energy in the absence of oxygen.
aerobic respiration
The process by which cells covert glucose and oxygen into energy, carbon dioxide, and water
mineralization
The process by which fungal and bacterial decomposers break down the organic matter found in dead bodies and waste products and convert it into inorganic compounds
Gene flow
The process by which individuals move from one population to another and thereby alter the genetic composition of both populations
Photosynthesis
The process by which producers use solar energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose
Base saturation
The proportion of soil bases to soil acids, expressed as a percent
Resilience
The rate at which an ecosystem returns to its original state after a disturbance
Distinguish between ecosystems resistance and ecosystem resilience
The resistance of an ecosystem is a measure of how much a disturbance can affect its flows of energy and matter. In contrast, the resilience of an ecosystem is the rate at which an ecosystem returns to its original state after a disturbance has occurred.
parent material
The rock material where inorganic components of a soil are derived
Limnetic zone
The shallow zone of soil and water in lakes and ponds where most algae and emergent plants grow
weather
The short-term conditions of the atmosphere in a local area, which include temperature, humidity, clouds, precipitation, and wind speed.
Describe the factors that determine the species richness of a community
The species richness of a community is typically higher at latitudes that are closer to the equator. Richness is also higher in older sites where evolution has been producing new species for a longer period of time. Finally, more species exist in larger habitats and habitats that are closer to sources of new species as is the case for oceanic islands that are located close to two continents
Maximum contamination level (MCL)
The standard for safe drinking water established by the EPA under the Safe Drinking Water Act
well-being
The status of being healthy, happy, and prosperous
Restoration ecology
The study and implementation of restoring damaged ecosystem.
community ecology
The study of how interactions between species affect community structure and organization
Earthquake
The sudden movement of the Earths crust caused by a release of potential energy along a geological fault and usually causing a vibration or trembling at the earths surface
fundamental niche
The suite of abiotic conditions under which a species can survive, grow, and reproduce
Tectonic cycle
The sum of the processes that build up and break down the lithosphere
Population size (N)
The total number of individuals within a defined area at a given time
Discuss the factors that cause unequal heating of Earth
The unequal heating of Earth is caused by differences in the angle of the sun's rays that strike Earth, the amount of atmosphere that the sun's ray must pass through before striking Earth's surface, and how much of the solar energy that reaches Earth is reflected and absorbed
Upwelling
The upward movement of ocean water toward the surface as a result of diverging currents
Thermal pollution (location, source, environmental impact, health effects, remediation)
Thermal pollution location: Water Thermal pollution source: power plant and industrial cooling Thermal pollution environmental impact; temperature sensitive organisms may be killed. Hotter temperatures may interfere with reproduction, growth rates, and levels of biodiversity. Fish may require more food because they grow all year around in warmer waters. Dissolved oxygen levels decrease in warmer water. Thermal pollution human health effects: none Thermal pollution prevention/remediation: prevent- use alternative energy resources that don't require cooling; cooling ponds or towers to cool hot water prior to being released into natural systems
where do the most tornadoes in the world occur?
Tornadoes occur in many parts of the world, including Australia, Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America. Even New Zealand reports about 20 tornadoes each year. Two of the highest concentrations of tornadoes outside the U.S. are Argentina and Bangladesh.
Health effects of VOC's (source, health, remediation)
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) Organic chemical compounds with significant vapor pressures that can affect the environment and human health. Sources of VOCs 1. Paint 2. Glue 3. Shower curtains 4. Printers Health effects of VOCs 1. Headaches/nausea 2. Brain damage 3. Cancer 4. Asthma Ways to reduce the risks of VOCs 1. VOC containing products 2. Outdoor ventilating 3. DIY test kit 4. Use products labeled "zero VOC"
primary Pollutants example
Vocs Co co2 SO2 NO NO2 most hydrocarbons most suspended particles
sources for indoor air pollution in the developed world
Vocs -- furniture; carpets;foam insulation; pressed wood; pesticides; paints; cleaning fluids. Cancer--Tobacco Smoke lead-- old paint Asbestos-- floor and ceiling tiles; pipe insulation Radon -- Rocks and soil beneath house carbon monoxide-- leaky gas stoves/furnance; car left running in the garage. PM-- fireplaces; wood stoves
Three Mile Island
Was the worst accident in U.S. commercial nuclear power plant history. An accident at the nuclear plant at this location that caused a radiation leak and forced the evacuation of 140,000 people near the site. Resulted in the release of small amounts of radioactive gases and radioactive iodine into the environment. The story made headlines around the world and seemed to confirm people's fears about nuclear power.
Gray water
Wastewater from baths, showers, baths, showers, bathrooms, and washing machines
Wastewater
Watee produced by livestock operations and himan activities- including sewage from toilets and gray warer from bathing ans washinf cloths and dishes
discuss how environmental change can lead to species extinction
When environmental changes are too rapid and too extensive to permit evolutionary changes, or if a species is unable to move to a more hospitable environments, a species will not be able to persist and the species will go extinct
Explain how the movement of air currents over mountain ranges affects climates
When moist air from the ocean moves up a mountain, the air cools and releases water as precipitation, which results in a moist environment on the windward side. On the other side of the mountain , the cool, dry air descends, which results in the dry environment on the leeward side of the mountain.
temperate grassland/cold desert
a biome characterized by cold, harsh winters, and hot, dry summers
woodland/shrubland
a biome characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters
tropical seasonal forest/savanna
a biome marked by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons
genetic drift
a change in the genetic composition of a population over time as a result of random mating
Ionic bond
a chemical bond between two ions od opposite charges
temperate rainforest
a coastal biome typified by moderate temperatures and high precipitation
food web
a complex model of how energy and matter moves between tropic levels
carbohydrate
a compound composed of carbon, hydrogen, or oxygen atoms
organic coumpound
a compound that contains carbon-carbon and carbon-hydrogen bonds
hadley cell
a convection current in tha atmosphere that ycles between the equatoe and 30N and 30S
protein
a critical component of living organisms made up of a long chain of nitrogen-containing organic molecules known as amino acids.
pesticide treadmill
a cycle of pesticides development, followed by pest resistance, followed by new pest development
anemia
a deficiency of iron
Slowing the current downstream migration causes
a delay that interfers with biological changes in young salmon - slow water exposes them to predators and disease
turbine
a device with blades that can be turned on by water, wind, steam, or exhaust has from combustion plants
density-dependent limiting factor
a factor that depends on population size, such as competition, predation, parasitism, disease.
tipping fee
a fee charge for disposing of material in a landfill or incinerator
negative feedback loop
a feedback loop in which a system responds to a change by returning to its original state, or by decreasing the rate at which the original, or by decreasing the rate at which the change is occurring.
positive feedback loop
a feedback loop in which change in a system is amplified
prescribed burn
a fire set under controlled conditions in order to reduce the accumulation of dead biomass on the forest floor
Electromagnetic radiation
a form of energy emitted by the sun that includes, but is not limited to, visible light, ultraviolet light, and infrared energy
waterlogging
a form of soil degradation that occurs when soil remains under water for prolonged periods
United Nations (UN)
a global institution dedicated to promoting dialogue among countries with the goal of maintaining world peace.
World bank
a global institution that provides technical and financial assistance to developing countries with the objectives of reducing poverty and promoting growth, especially in the poorest countries.
survivorship curve
a graph that represents the distinct patterns of species survival as a function of age
species
a group of organisms that is distinct from other groups in its morphology (body form and structure), behavior, or biochemical properties.
metapopulation
a group of populations that are separated by space but consist of the same species
logistic growth model
a growth model that describes slowing growth of populations whose growth is initially approaches the carrying capacity of the environment
exponential growth model (nt = N0e^rt)
a growth model that estimates a populations future size (nt) after a period of time (t), based on the intrinsic growth rate (r) and the number of reproducing individuals currently in the population (N0)
cell
a highly organized living entity that consists of four major types of macromolecules and other substances in a watery solution, surrounded by a membrane.
theory
a hypothesis that has been repeatedly tested and confirmed by multiple groups of researchers and has reached wide acceptance
ecosystem engineer
a keystone species that creates or maintains habitat for other species
troposphere
a layer of the atmosphere closest to the surface of Earth, extending up to approximately 16 km (10 miles)
photon
a massless packet of energy that carries electromagnetic radiation at the speed of light
resistance
a measure of how much a disturbance can affect floes in energy and matter in an ecosystem.
ecological footprint
a measure of how much an individual consumes, expressed in area of land
genetic diversity
a measure of the genetic variation among individuals in a population.
Human poverty Index (HPI)
a measurement index developed by the UN to investigate the proportion of a population suffering from deprivation in a country with a high HDI
mass number
a measurement of a total number of protons and neutrons in an element
mass
a measurement of the amount of matter an object contains
atomic number
a measurement of the total number of protons in the nucleus of a particular element.
natural experiment
a natural event that acts as an experimental treatment in an ecosystem.
fission
a nuclear reaction where a neutron hits a large atomic nucleus then splits into 2 parts, releasing more neutrons and energy in the form of heat
RNA (ribonucleic acid)
a nucleic acid that translates the code stored in DNA, which makes possible the synthesis of proteins
limiting nutrient
a nutrient required for the growth of an organism but available in a lower quantity than other nutrients
ecosystem
a particular location on earth with interacting biotic and abiotic components
environmentalist
a person who participates in environmentalism, a social movement that seeks to protect the environment through lobbying, activism, and education.
broad-spectrum pesticides
a pesticides that kills many different kinds of pests
coral bleaching
a phenomenon in which algae inside corals die, causing the corals to turn white
first law of thermodynamics
a physical law which states that energy can neither be created nor destroyed, but can change from one form to another.
adaptive management plan
a plan that provides flexibility so that managers can modify it as changes occur.
combined cycle
a power plant that uses both exhaust gases and steam turbines to generate electricity
null hypothesis
a prediction that there is no difference between groups or conditions, or a statement or an idea that can be falsified, or proved wrong
chemosynthesis
a process used by some bacteria in the ocean to generate energy with methane and hydrogen sulfide.
Capillary action
a property of water that occurs when adhesion of water molecules to a surface is stronger than cohesion between the molecules
Mutation
a random error in gene replication that leads to a change
nuclear fusion
a reaction that happens when lighter nuclei are forced to come together ns produce heavier nuclei
bottleneck effect
a reduction in the genetic diversity of a population caused by a reduction in its size
tropic pyramid
a representation of the distribution of biomass, number, or energy among tropic levels
limiting resource
a resource that a population cannot live without and that occurs in quantities lower than the population would require to increase in size
Richter Scale
a scale that measures the highest ground movement that occurs during an Earthquake.
Thermal inversion
a situation in which a layer of warm air (an inversion layer) lies over a layer of cool air.
niche generalists
a species that can live under a wide range of abiotic or biotic conditions
pioneer species
a species that colonizes an uninhabited area and that starts a process of succession
r-selected species
a species that has a high intrinsic growth rate, often leading to population overshoots and die-offs
niche specialist
a species that is specialized to live in a specific habitat or to feed on a small group of species
steady state
a state in which inputs equal outputs, so that the system is not changing over time.
Incentive-based approach
a strategy for pollution control that constructs financial and other incentives for lowering emissions based on profits and benefits
command-and-control approach
a strategy for pollution control that involves regulations and enforcement mechanisms
environmental economics
a subfield of economics that examples the costs and benefits of various policies and regulations that seek to regulate or limit and water pollution and other causes of environmental degration.
pesticides
a substance, either natural or synthetic, that kills or controls organisms that people consider pests Pro - higher productivity - prevents disease - economics cons - harms non target animals - human health risks -resistance
open system
a system in which exchanges of matter or energy occur across system boundaries.
photovoltaic solar system
a system of capturing energy from sunlight and converting it directly into electricity
waste-to-energy
a system where heat released by incineration is used as energy, rather then released into the atmosphere
green tax
a tax placed on environmentally harmful activities or emissions in an attempt to internalize some of the externalizes that may be involved in the life cycle of those activities or products
wind turbine
a turbine that converts wind energy into electricity
flex-furl vehicle
a vehicle that runs on either gasoline or a gasoline/ethanol mixture
hydrogen bond
a weak chemical bond that forms when hydrogen atoms that are covalently bonded to one atom are attracted to another atom on another molecule.
environmental worldview
a worldview that encompasses how one thinks the world works; how one view one's role in the world; and what one believes to be proper environmental behavior.
anthropocentric Worldview
a worldview that focuses on human welfare and well-being
Biocentric Worldview
a worldview that holds that humans are just one of many species on Earth, all of which have equal intrinsic value.
Ecocentric worldview
a worldview that places equal value on all living organisms and the ecosystems in which they live.
identify the five layers of atmosphere
above the Earth's surface, the first layer of atmosphere is the troposphere, followed by the stratosphere, mesosphere, atmosphere, and the exosphere.
Greenhouse effect
absorption of infrared radiation by atmospheric gases and reradiation of the energy back to earth
Ore
accumulation of minerals in a concentrated point, where economically valuable material can be extracted.
Factors that affect evolution
adaption process is slow populations with more genetic diversity and if a mutation, disease, etc. goes through then their is a lower possibility that all species would off
population pyramid
age structure diagram where widest
sustainable agriculture
agriculture that fulfills the need for food and fiber while enhancing the quality of soil, minimizing the use of nonrenewable resources, and allowing economic viability for the farmer
What contains the most CFC's (Chlorine-fluorine compounds)
air conditioners
Smog
air pollution by a mixture of smoke and fog
photochemical smog
air pollution that forms from the interaction between chemicals in the air and sunlight also known as los angelus type smog; Brown smog
manufactured capital
all goods and services that humans produce
watershed
all land in a given landscape that drains into a particular stream, river, lake, or wetland
no-till agriculture
an agricultural method in which farmers do not turn the soil between seasons as a means of reducing topsoil erosion
shifting agriculture
an agricultural method in which land is cleared and used for a few years until soil is depleted from nutrients
intercropping
an agricultural method in which two or more crop species are planted in the same field at the same time to promotea synergistic interaction
monocropping
an agricultural method that utilizes large planting of a single species or variety
Integrated pest management (IPM)
an agricultural practice that uses a variety of techniques designed to minimize pesticide outputs.
crop rotation
an agricultural technique in which crop species in field are rotated from season to season
contour plowing
an agricultural technique in which plowing and harvesting re done parallel to the topographic contours of the land
agroforestry
an agricultural technique in which trees and vegetables are intercropped.
systems analysis
an analysis to determine inputs, outputs, and changes in a system under carious conditions
detritovore
an animal that feeds on dead organic material, especially plant detritus.
triple bottom line
an approach to sustainability that considers three factors-economic, environmental, and social- when making decisions about business, the economy, and development.
aquatic biome
an aquatic region characterized by a particular combination of salinity, depth, and water flow
fuel cell
an electrical-chemical device that converts fuel, such as hydrogen, into an electrical current
renrewable
an energy source that is either potentially renewable or nondepletable
sanitary landfill
an engineered ground facility designed to hold municipal solid waste (MSW) with as little contamination of the surrounding environment as possible
uncertainty
an estimate of how much a measured or calculated value differs from a true value.
disturbance
an event, caused by physical, chemical, or biological agents, resulting in changes in population size or community composition
environmental indicator
an indicator that describes the current state of an environmental system
Kyoto Protocol
an international agreement that sets a goal emissions of greenhouse gases from all industrialized countries to be reduced by 5.3% below their 1990 levels by 2012
scientific method
an objective method to explore the natural world, draw inferences from it, and predict the outcome of certain events, processes, or changes
thermohaline circulation
an oceanic circulation pattern that drives the mixing of surface water and deep water
scavenger
an organism that consumes dead animals
detirivore
an organism that specializes in breaking down dead tissues and waste products into smaller particles.
matter
anything that occupies space and has mass
integrated waste management
approach to waste disposal that has several waste reduction, management, and disposable strategies in order to reduce MSW's environmental impact
urban area
area contains 385 people per square kilometer (1,000 people per square mile)
National wilderness area
area set aside with the intent of preserving a large tract of intact ecosystems or a landscape
o horizon
at horizon on the surface of many soils made of organic detritus in various stages of decomp
Life expectancy
average # of years a child in a specific country in a specific year can expect to live due to the current death rate of a country
Explain the insights gained from watershed studies
because watersheds contain all of the land in a given landscape that drains into a particular water body, experimental manipulations such as logging allow scientists to determine how a disturbance to an system alters the flow of energy and matter.
tierd rate system
billing system used by some electric company where customers pay more based on how much they used
5 key environmental indicators
biological diversity, food production, average global surface temperature and CO2 concentrations, human population, resource depletion
hypertrophic lakes
bodies of water that have been excessively enriched with nutrients. These lakes typically have poor clarity and are subject to devastating algal blooms.
incineration
burning waste materials to reduce mass and volume sometimes used to generate electricity
How do hybrid cars use less fossil fuels then the combustion engine?
by using both a conventional engine and electric motor, the best hybrids achieve significantly better fuel efficiency than their non-hybrid counterparts. They also pollute less and save drivers money through fuel savings.
Discuss the movement of calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sulfur within ecosystems
calcium, magnesium, and potassium are derived from rock and can be held by soils. Producers can assimilate these elements, and mineralization of waste products and dead organisms returns the elements back to the environment. Most sulfur exists in the form of rocks and is released through the process of weathering, which makes it available for plant assimilation. Some sulfur exists as a gas in the form of sulfur dioxide (SO2), which can be produced by volcanic eruption and the burning of fossil fuels. In the atmosphere, SO2 is converted into sulfuric acid (H2SO4) when it mixes with water. The sulfuric acid can then be carried back to the ground when it rains or snows.
modern carbon
carbon in biomass that was recently in the atmosphere
fossil carbon
carbon in fossil fuels
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
cause: combustion of fossil fuels and clearing land Effects: affects climate and alters ecosystem by increasing greenhouse gas concentration
anthropogenic
caused by human events
1 degree temperature difference in the ocean
causes a 28in increase in the ocean
health effects of Mercury (source, health, remediation)
chlorine gas, caustic soda, thermometers, dental fillings, switches, light bulbs, batteries, from power plants, health effects of mercury nervous system affected high levels=permanent damage to brain, kidneys, fetuses short term high levels=lung damage, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, high bp, heart rate, skin rash, eye irritation
Carbon Monoxide CO
colorless, odorless gas formed during the incomplete combustion of matter. Sources all incomplete combustion (fossil fuels too) malfunctioning exhaust systems and poorly ventilated cooking areas plant respiration Effect: Bonds to hemoglobin, interfering with the transport of oxygen to the bloodstream. cause headaches death with high exposer
causes of CO2 emission
combustion generated for electricity (38%) combustion for transportation (31%) industrial processes (14%) combustion for homes and businesses (10%)
understanding the process and benefits of composting
composting is the diversion of organic material, like food and yard waste, from the waste stream and allowing it to decompose into organic soil (humus). Composting, source reduction, and reuse generally have lower energy and financial cost than recycling, but all are important ways to minimize solid waste production
brownfields
contaminated industrial or commercial sites that mat require environmental cleanup before being redeveloped or expanded.
developing country
country with low levels of industrialization and income
composting
creation of organic matter (humus) by decomposition under controlled conditions to produce an organic-rich material that enhances soil structure, cation exchange capacity, and fertility
control rod
cylindrical device between the fuel nods in a nuclear reactor to absorb excess neutrons and slow or stop the first fission reaction
fuel rod
cylindrical tube that encloses nuclear fuel within a nuclear reactor
1Bq =
decay of 1 atom or nucleus per second
Fishery collapse
decline in fish population by 90% or more
causes of greenhouse gas
deforestation, agriculture, landfill, factories, fossil fuel use
bitumen
degraded petroleum that forms when petroleum moves to the surface of the earth and is modified by the bacteria
sustainable development
development that balances current human well-being and economic advancement with resource management for the benefit of future generations
Biodiesel
diesel substitute produced by extracting and chemically altering oil from plants.
Net migration rate
diifference of immmigration and emigeation in a given year per 1,000 people
the fate of MSW in the United States
discarded 54% reduce, reuse, compost 34% combustion with energy recovery 12%
Disease vocab
disease: any impaired function of the body with a set of symptoms Infectious disease: caused by pathogens Acute disease: rapidly impairs (ebola) chronic disease: slowly impairs (cancer, heart disease) Epidemic: Rapid increase in disease Pandemic: large geographic region
overnutrition
eat too many calories that lack a balance of food and nutrients
primary succession
ecological succession occurring on surfaces that are initially devoid of soil
quantify ecosystems productivity
ecosystem productivity can be quantified by measuring the total amount of solar energy that producers capture, which is gross primary productivity, or by measuring the total amount of solar energy captured minus the amount of energy used for respiration, which is net primary productivity.
resource partitioning
elates to evolutionary change in species in response to selection pressures generated by interspecific competition.
leading producers of Sulfur dioxide
electricity generation fossil fuel combustion industrial processes
active solar energy
energy captured from sunlight with advanced technologies
wind energy
energy generated from the kinetic energy of moving air
causes of Methane
energy production and combustion (41%) Livestock digestion (23%) Landfills (17%) Manure management (9%) wastewater management (3%)
potentially renewable
energy source that can be regenerated indefinitely as long as its not over harvested
nonrenewable energy resources
energy source with a limited supply. Usually refers to fossil fuels or nuclear fuels
commercial energy sources
energy sources that are bought and sold
subsistence energy sources
energy taken by an individual for immediate needs
tidal energy
energy that comes from the movement of water driven by the gravitational pull of the moon
mountaintop removal
entire top of mountain is removed with explosives
define the field of environmental science and discuss its importance
environmental science is the study of the interactions among human-dominated systems and natural systems and how those interactions affect environments. Studying environmental science helps is identify, understand, and respond to anthropogenic changes.
Law of the Sea Treaty (UN)-
established off-shore limits of up to 200 miles; countries are responsible for managing own fisheries
1972-the Clean Water Act
establishes the basic structure for regulating discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States and regulating quality standards for surface waters.
Total Fertility rate (TFR)
estimate of the average amount of children each women will have in their life
Nomatic Grazing
feeding of herbs or animals by moving them to seasonally protective areas
energy conservation
finding and implementing ways to use less energy
identify key environmental indicators and their trends over time
five important global-scale environmental indicators are biological diversity, food production, average global surface temperature and atmospheric CO2 concentrations, human population, and resource depletion. Biological diversity is decreasing as a result of human actions, most notably habitat destruction and habitat degradation. Food production appears to be leveling off and may be decreasing. Carbon dioxide concentrations are steadily increasing as a result of fossil fuel combustion and land conservation. Human population continues to increase and probably will continue to do so throughout this century. Resource depletion for most natural resources continues to increases.
capacity factor
fraction of the time a power plant operates a year
Decomposers
fungi and bacteria that convert organic matter into small elements and molecules that can be recycled back into the ecosystem
Fracture
geology, crack that occurs as a rock cools
atmospheric convection current
global patterns of air movement that are initiated by the unequal heating of Earth
peak demand
greatest quantity of energy used at one time
malnourished
having a diet that lacks the correct baleen of proteins, carbs, vitamins, and minerals.
Define hazardous waste and discuss the issues involved in handling it
hazardous waste is a special category of material that is toxic to humans and the environment. It includes industrial by-products and some household items such as batteries and oil-based paints, all requiring special disposal methods.
geothermal energy
heat energy that comes from the natural radioactive decay of elements deep within the earth
Horizon
horizontal layer defined by- distinct physical features such as texture and color
precision
how close the repeated measurements of a sample are to one another
run-of-the-river
hydroelectricity generation where water is retained behind a low dam or no dam
intrusive igneous rock
igneous rock that forms when magma rises up and cools in a place underground
development
improvement in human well-being through economic advancement.
control group
in a scientific investigation, a group that experiences exactly the same conditions as the experimental group, except for the single variable under study.
Crust
in geology, chemically distinct outermost layer of the lithosphere
reverse
in resource management the known amount resources that can economically recover
explain the design and purpose of solid waste incinerator
incineration is an alternative to landfills. Its main benefits is that it reduces the waste material to roughly one-quarter of its original volume. in addition. waste-to-energy incineration often uses the excess heat produced to generate electricity. However, incineration generates air pollution and ash, which can sometimes contain a high concentration of toxic substances and require disposal in a special ash landfill.
both the total MSW and percent recycled has
increased since 1985
ITQ's
individual transferable quota - give each fisher a quota of fish
Type II survivorship curve
individuals die at a constant rate (e.g., birds, rodents, and perennial plants).
explain how evolution can occur through natural selection
individuals vary in traits that can be passed on to the next generation and this variation in traits cause different abilities to survive and reproduce in the traits, but simple favors any trait changes that result in higher survival or reproduction
ways MSW is treated
information on cleaning and disinfecting disposal equipment, guidance on transporting infected materials for disposal, and contact information for local and state environmental, agricultural, health, and emergency response organizations.
60% of the worlds freshwater
is used for irrigation purposes
explain the purpose of the life-cycle analysis
life-cycle analysis tracks material "from cradle to grave" using life-cycle analysis and integrated waste treatment- which draw on all the available treatment methods-we can make optimal decisions regarding our solid waste
crude oil
liquid petroleum removed from the ground
leachate
liquid that contains elevated levels of pollutants as a result of having passed through municipal solid waste (MSW) or contaminated soil
hazardous waste
liquid, solid, gaseous, or sludge waste material that is harmful to humans or ecosystems
sustainability
living on Earth in a way that allows humans to use its resources without depriving future generations of those resources
a holistic approach to waste management
manufacturing (changes in package design, changes in practices) ---> uses (changes in purchasing habits backyard composing increasing reuse) --> waste (recovery for recycling composting --> disposal (incineration or landfill) manufacturing and use = source reduction Manufacturing, use, and waste = waste reduction
Waste
material outputs from a system that are not useful
population growth models
mathematical equations that can be used to predict population size at any moment in time
Discuss how matter is conserved in chemical and biological systems
matter cannot be created or destroyed, but its form can be changed within chemical and biological systems. This is part of the reason we cannot easily dispose of certain chemical compounds, such as hazardous materials.
describe how matter comprises atoms and molecules that move among different systems
matter is composed of atoms, which are made up of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Atoms and molecules can interact in chemical reactions in which the bonds between particular atoms may change.
Gross Domestic product (GDP)
measure value of all products and services in a given year
Explain the dynamics that occur in metapopulations
metapopulations are groups of spatially distinct populations that are connected by occasional movements for individuals. These populations that are connected by occasional movements of individuals. These movements reduce the probability if any of the populations from going extinct
magma
molten rock
Describe the content of solid waste stream in the US
mostly made of paper, food, and yard waste. waste generation per capita has been increasing steadily the past few years.during which has been a slight decline
Immigration
movement of people into a country or region away from the one they are in
how do you calculate the national pop growth rate
national pop growth rate = [(CBR+imigration)] - (CBR + emigraton)} / 10
electrical grid
network of interconnected transmission lines that joins power plants together and links them with end users of electricity.
Superfund act
nickname for the "Comprehensive environmental Response, compensation, and liability act" (CERCLA) 1980 US federal act that imposes a tax on the chemical and petroleum industries, funds the cleanup of abandoned and non operating hazardous waste sites and authorized federal government response directly to the release or threatened release of substance that may cause a threat to human health.
abiotic
non living
radioactive waste
nuclear fuel can no longer produce enough heat to be useful in a power plant but contain uses to emit radio active activity
Niche structure
number in ecological niche
net migration rate calculation
number of immigrants a year / # of people in the population
Explain the role of agencies and regulations in efforts to protect our natural and human capital
once a society belives it has enough scientific information to act with the intent of protecting or reducing harm to the environment, it must determine the rules and regulations it wishes to enact. A group of government agencies in the United States handles the areas that offer protection to the environment and humans. Policies are enacted through passage and modification of laws.
macronutrient
one of the six key elements that organisms need in relatively large amounts: nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulfur.
to increase salmon population
one should release extra water from dams to wash juvenile salmon downstream
Discuss the relationship among sustainability, poverty, personal action, and stewardship
one-sixth of the world population has inadequate housing, clean water, and adequate medical care before they can be concerned about environmental sustainability. The UN Millennium Development Goals have established objectives for improving the status of people and the sustainability of the environment. The human-centered worldview maintains the humans have intrinsic value and nature provides for our needs. The life-centered worldview holds that humans are one of the many species on Earth, all of which have value. The earth-centered worldview places equal value on both all living organisms and ecosystems. Individual and community action can lead to sustainable actions occurring at a great level world wide.
nucleic acid
organic compounds found in all living cells
Oxygen demand (location, source, environmental impacts, human health effects, and remediation)
oxygen demanding wastes location: water oxygen demanding wastes source: Sewage; wastes from food production; meat packing plants Oxygen demanding wastes environmental impacts: decomposition of the wastes removes DO in water resulting in anoxia Oxygen demanding wastes human health effects: related to pathogens carried in the wastes oxygen demanding wastes prevention/remedation: prevent- government regulatory action; increase oxygenation of contaminated water
Ozone (location, source, environmental impact, health effects, remediation)
ozone location: air ozone source O3; secondary air pollutant arising from NOx and VOCs; major component of photochemical smog ozone environmental impact Damages plant cells; interferes with food storage in plants; reduces crop yields and increases disease susceptibility. decreases visibilty ozone human health effects usually highest during the summer; respiratory problems; irritate respiratory system resulting in discomfort, coughing, and throat irritation; impairs respiration; exacerbates lung disease ozone prevention/remediation prevent-government regulatory action; improved fuel efficiency; alternative fuel methods for automobiles; mass transit, carpooling, bicycles
consumption by weight in the U.S before recycling top two
paper (30% of weight) compostables (food scraps, yard waste, wood)
The breakdown of material that is recovered and discarded
paper (53%) food and yard waste (make up 1/3)
Impermeable surface
pavement or buildings that do not allow water penetration
Pesticides (location, source, environmental impact, health effects, remediation)
pesticides location: soil;water pesticides source: agriculture;urban areas;golf courses pesticides environmental imapcts DDT-very persistent birds-eggshell thinning; infertility Mammals-toxic to embryos and fetuses Pesticides human health effects: Neurotoxin-increases neurotransmitter release increasing excitability of muscles;tremors;convulsions;death Pesticides prevention/remediation: prevent-government regulatory action; use non-persistent nonbioaccumulating pesticides; IPM
describe the process of photosynthesis and respiration
photosynthesis captures the energy of the sun to convert CO2 and water into carbohydrates. Respiration, whether aerobics or anaerobic, unlocks the chemical energy stored in the cells of organisms
geographic isolation
physical separation of a group of individuals from others of the same species
perennial plant
plants that live for multiple years
annual plants
plants that only live in one season
Plastics (location, source, environmental impact, health effects, remediation)
plastics location: water Plastics source: Boat wastes Plastics Environmental impact: Harms wildlife by wrapping around their bodies Plastics human health effects: production more dangerous than product Plastics prevention/remediation: Prevent-government regulatory action; ban ocean dumping from ships
Discuss the characteristics of populations
populations can have distinct population sizes, densities, distributions, sex ratios, and age structures
positive and negative aspects of Habitat changes caused by climate change
positive - increased runoff/flooding helps maintain aquatic habitats - new habitat is created for organisms that are salt tolerant negative - due to changes in water quality (rainfall) --> reduced runoff/drought dries out aquatic habitat --> flooding/ storm water runoff floods previous semi-aquatic habitat - due to sea level rise (salt water intrusion) --> increased saltinity levels in esturarues can lead to a decline in populations for species not adapted to higher salinity levels --> nests of wading birds and other coastal dwelling animals may be destroyed --> salt tolerant communities (such as red mangroves) can move inland, displacing existing communities - elvated temperatures facor invasive species - elevated temperatures push some species past their upper temperature tolerance limit (terrestrial or aquatic)
Three kinds of PM
primary particulate matter: directly released into the atmosphere by a large number of human and natural sources secondary particulate matter: formed by physical and chemical reactions from other pollutants, called precursors. re-suspended particulate matter: after it has been deposited, particulate matter can then return into the air through wind action or road traffic disturbance in urban areas, for example
Adaptive radiation
process by which a single species or small group of species evolves into several different forms that live in different ways; rapid growth in the diversity of a group of organisms -> General (Mistake in genetic code) --> environmental change --> geographic isolation
Mineralization
process by which fungal and bacterial decomposers break down the organic matter found in dead bodies and waste products and convert it into inorganic compounds -Can be called ammonification bc organic molecules are converted into inorganic ammonia (taken by producers and nitrification).
recycling
process that Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) is collected and converted into raw material that is then used to produce new objects
organic agriculture
production of crops without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers
Thermal Mass
property of building material that allows it to maintain heat or cold
open-loop recycling
recycling one product to become a different product
capacity
refers to electricity generating plants, the max electrical output
municipal solid waste (MSW)
refuse collected by municipalties from households, small bussinesses, and institutions
Family planning
regulate offspring through birth control
strip mining
removal of strips of soil and rock to expose ore
bottom ash
residue collected at the bottom of the combustion chamber in a furnace
fly ash
residue collected from the chimney or exhaust pipe of the furnace
Extrusive igneous rock
rock that forms when magma cools above the surface
metamorphic rock
rock that forms when sedimentary rock, igneous rock, or other metamorphic rock is subjected to high temperature and pressure.
sedimentary rock
rock that forms when sediments, like muds, sands, and gravels are compressed by overlaying sediment
hydrological cycle
runoff water flowing downhill transpiration loss of excess water from land plants condensation phase change from water vapor to liquid water infiltration water filtering through the pores in soil or rock evaporation phase change from liquid water to water vapor precipitation rain, snow, sleet, or hail
demographer
scientist in the field pf demography
oil sands
slow-flowing, viscous deposits of bitumen mix with sand, water, and clay
B horizon
soil horizon made primarily out of mineral material with little organic matter.
coal
solid fuel formed mostly from the remains of trees, ferns, and other plant material preserves 280 million- 360 million years ago
energy carrier
something that can move and deliver energy in a convenient, usable way
Affluence
state of having a lot of wealth (money, goods, or property)
Triple bottom line
states that we need to take into account three factors: economic, environmental, social: when making decisions about business, the economy, and development
water impoundment
storage of water in a reservoir behind a dam
potential energy
stored energy that has not been released
Demography
study human populations and pop trends
Environmental problems with abandoned coal mines
subsidence/ sinkholes can cause shafts to collapse Habitat recovers slowly stream/ water quality degradation Acid mine drainage Heavy metal runoff Tailings alter landscape and drainage patterns Increase soil erosion particulate/ dust pollution Animals fall in Methane released Underground fires difficult to extinguish
define sustainability and explain how it can be measured using the ecological footprint
sustainability is the use of Earths resources to meet our current needs without jeopardizing the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The ecological footprint is the land area required to support a person's (or a country's) lifestyle. We can use that information to say something about how sustainable that lifestyle would be if it were adopted globally.
explain how scientists keep track of energy and matter inputs, outputs, and changes to environmental systems
systems can be open or closed to exchanges of matter, energy, or both. A systems analysis determines what goes into, what comes out of, and what has changed within a given system. Environmental scientists use systems analysis to calculate inputs to and outputs from a system and its rate of change, the system is in steady state. Changes in one input or output can affect the entire system.
what has skyrocketed since the industrial revolution
temp steady increase Methane, CO2, NOx going up
species diversity
that number of species in a region or in particular type of habitat. - number of different species
1997
the Kyoto Protocol
1987
the Montreal Protocol (UN)
slitation
the accumulation of sediments, primarily slit, on the bottom of a reservoir
remediation
the action of remedying something, in particular of reversing or stopping environmental damage
standing crop
the amount of biomass present in an ecosystem at a particular time.
electrolysis
the application of an electric current to water molecules to split them into hydrogen and oxygen
background extinction rate
the average rate at which species become extinct over the long term
climate
the average weather that occurs in a given region over a long period of time
Resource conservation ethic
the belief that people should maximize use of resources based on the greatest good of everyone
describe the alternative ways to handle waste and waste generation
the best solution is to design products with a strategy for their ultimate reuse or their dismantling and recycling. This approach has become more common in recent years.
Chemical weathering
the breakdown of rocks and minerals chemically. the dissolving of chemical elements from rocks, minerals, or both.
Stewardship
the careful and responsible management and care for Earth and its resources
Evapotranspiration
the combined amount of evaporation and transpiration
Denitrification
the conversion of nitrate (NO3-) in a series of steps into the gases nitrous oxide (N2o) and, eventually, nitrogen gas (N2), which is emitted into the atmosphere.
adiabatic cooling
the cooling effect of reduced pressure on air as it rises higher in the atmosphere and expands
externality
the cost of a good or service that is not included in the purchase price
replication
the data collection procedure of taking repeated measurements.
Aphotic zone
the deeper layer of ocean water that lacks sufficient sunlight for photosynthesis
Coriolis effect
the deflection of an object's path due to the rotation of Earth
biodiversity
the diversity of life forms in an environment
energy quality
the ease with which an energy source can be used for work
Net primary productivity (NPP)
the energy captured by producers in an ecosystem minus the energy producers respire
explain energy transfer efficiency and trophic pryimads
the energy present in one trophic level can be transferred to a higher trophic level and the efficiency of this transfer is roughly 10%. Because of this low energy transfer efficiency, the amount of energy present in each trophic level declines as we move higher trophic levels. We can represent the energy in each trophic level as a rectangular block in a pyramid, with a size that is proportional to the energy found in the trophic level. Low ecological efficiency results in a large biomass of producers, but a much lower biomass of primary consumers and an even lower biomass of secondary consumers.
Energy intensity
the energy use per unit of GPD
speciation
the evolution of a new species
nomadic grazing
the feeding of herds of animals by moving them to seasonally productive feeding grounds, often over long distances.
environmental studies
the field of study that includes environmental science and additional subjects such as environmental policy, economics, literature, and ethics.
environmental science
the field of study that looks at interactions among human systems and those found in nature
discuss the first ans second laws of thermodynamics and explain how they influence environmental systems
the first law of thermodynamics states that energy cannot be created of destroyed, but it can be converted from one form into another. The second law of thermodynamics states that in any conversion of energy, some energy is converted into unusable waste energy, and the entropy of the universe is increased. The quantities and forms of energy present in various systems influence the type of organisms in those systems.
waste stream
the flow of solid waste that is recycled, incinerated,placed in a solid waste landfill, or disposed of in another way
Energy subsidy
the fossil fuel energy and human energy input per calories of food produced.
seismic activity
the frequency and intensity of earthquakes experienced over time
adiabatic heating
the heating effect of increased pressure on air as it sinks toward the surface of Earth and decreases in volume.
identify ways in which humans have altered and continue to alter our environment
the impact of humans on natural systems has been significant since early humans hunted some large animal species to extinction. However, technology and population growth have dramatically increased both the rate and the scale of human-induced change.
Euphotic
the layer closer to the surface that receives enough light for photosynthesis to occur. Beneath lies the disphotic zone, which is illuminated but so poorly that rates of respiration exceed those of photosynthesis.
stratosphere
the layer of the atmosphere above the troposphere, extending roughly 16 to 50 km (10-31 miles) above the surface of Earth.
C horizon
the least weathered soil horizon, always beneath the B horizon and is similar to the parent material
range of tolerance
the limits to the abiotic conditions that a species can tolerate
saturation point
the maximum amount of water vapor in the air at a given temperature
intrinsic growth rate
the maximum potential for growth of a population under ideal conditions with unlimited resources
physical weathering
the mechanical breakdown of rocks and minerals
coral reef
the most diverse marine biome on Earth, found in warm, shallow waters beyond the shoreline
carbon cycle
the movement of carbon around the biosphere
Nitrogen cycle
the movement of nitrogen around the biosphere
phosphorus Cycle
the movement of phosphorus around the biosphere.
sulfur cycle
the movement of sulfur around the biosphere
biogeochemical cycle
the movements of matter within and between chemical ecosystems
benthic zone
the muddy bottom of a lake, pond, or ocean
intertidal zone
the narrow band of coastline between the levels of high and low tide
By catch
the nonintentional catch of non target species while fishing
population density
the number of individuals per unit area
species richness
the number of species in a given area
Economies of scale
the observations that average costs of production falls as output increases.
Lithoshpere
the outer most layer of the Earth, including the mantle and crust
albedo
the percentage of incoming sunlight reflected from a surface
technology transfer
the phenomenon of less developed countries adopting technological innovations developed in wealthy countries.
leapfrogging
the phenomenon of less developed countries using the precursor technology
second law of thermodynamics
the physical law stating that when energy is transformed, the quantity of energy remains the same, but its ability to do work diminishes.
Erosion
the physical removal of rock fragments from a landscape or ecosystem
peak oil
the point half of all the total known oil supply is used up
valuation
the practice of assigning monetary value to intangible and natural capital.
ecological succession
the predictable replacement of one group of species by another group of species over time
Ammonification
the process by which fungal and bacterial decomposers break down the organic nitrogen found in dead bodies and waste products and convert it into inorganic ammonium (NH4+)
assimilation
the process by which producers incorporate elements into their tissues
placer mining
the process of looking for minerals, metals, and precious stones in river sediments
Net removal
the process of removing more then is replaced by growth, typically referring to carbon
Desalination
the process of removing salt, also known as desalinization
allopatric speciation
the process of speciation that occurs with geographic isolation
ecosystem services
the processes by which life-supporting resources such as clean water, timber, fisheries, and agricultural crops are produced
ecological efficiency
the proportion of consumed energy that can be passed from one trophic level to another
realized niche
the range of abiotic and biotic conditions under which a species actually lives
power
the rate at which work is done
energy efficency
the ratio of the amount of energy expended in the form you want to the total amount of energy that is introduced into the system
biosphere
the region of our planet where life resides, the combination of all ecosystems on Earth
species evenness
the relative proportion of different species in a given area
latent heat release
the release of energy when water vapor in the atmosphere condenses into liquid water.
ash
the residual non-organic materiel that does not combust during incineration
natural capital
the resources of planet, such as air, water, and minerals
explain the scientific method and its application to the study of environmental problems
the scientific method is a process of obsercation, hypothesis generation, data collection, analysis of result, and dissemination of findings. Repetition of measurements or experiments is critical if one is to determine the validity of findings. Hypotheses are tested and often modified before being accepted.
siting
the sedition for where a landfill should be placed. usually decided by regulatory processes involving studies with written reports and public hearings.
food chain
the sequence of consumption from producers through tertiary consumers
littoral zone
the shallow zone of soil and water in lakes and ponds where most algae and emergent plants grow
S-shaped curve
the shape of the logistic growth model when graphed
atom
the smallest particle that can contain the chemical properties of an element.
Hairs and lynxs are so mutually dependent on each other that
the species cannot survive on their own
epicenter
the spot directly above where their earth cracks as a result of an Earthquake
ecological economics
the study of economics as a component to ecological systems.
population ecology
the study of factors that cause populations to increase or decrease
economics
the study of how humans allocate scarce resources in the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services
trophic levels
the successive levels of organisms consuming one another
environment
the sum of all the conditions surrounding us that influence life
Tragedy of the commons
the tendency of a shared, limited resource to become depleted because people act in self interest and short term gain.
theory of island biogeography
the theory that explains that both habitat size and distance determine species richness
half-life
the time it tales for one-half of an original radioactive parent atom to decay
A horizon
the top layer of soil where organic material and minerals have mixed together, AKA topsoil
Gross Primary Productivity (GPP)
the total amount of solar energy that producers in an ecosystem capture via photosynthesis over a given amount of time
Replacement level fertility
the total fertility rate that will offset deaths to maintain the current pop.
biomass
the total mass of all living matter in a specific area
desertification
the transformation or arable, productive land to desert or unproductive land due to climate change or destructive land use.
leaching
the transportation of dissolved molecules through the soil via groundwater
Distinguish among the trophic levels that exist in food chains and food webs
the trophic levels consist of producers that convert solar energy into producers that convert solar energy into producer biomass through photosynthesis, primary consumers that eat the producer, secondary consumers that eat the secondary consumers. Omnivores eat individuals from more than one trophic group. Trophic groups that eat waste products and dead organisms are scavengers, detritivores, and decomposers
explain why er generate waste and describe recent waste disposal trends
the united states has the attitude of a "throw-away society" after world war 2 US generates a lot of solid waste but lifestyle and goods disseminated (spread widely) around the world to make this a global problem
Reservoir
the water body created by a damming a river or a stream
Asbestos
thin, long fibrous silicate mineral with insulating properties, which can cause cancer when inhaled
describe regulations and legislation regarding hazardous waste
through a variety of regulations and legislation have been implemented to address issues of hazardous waste, many problems remain. CERCLA also called the Superfund ACT, is probably the most well-known regulation concerning hazardous waste because it provides for cleanup of hazardous waste sites
ecotourism
tourism to exotic or threatened ecosystems to observe wildlife or to help preserve nature; encourages environmental awareness and has little effect on the ecosystem; supports the conservation and sustainable development of ecologically unique areas
curie
unit of measure for radiation
Bequerel (Bq)
unit that measures the rate a sample of radioactive material takes to decay
Urban sprawl
urbanized areas that spread into rural areas, removing clear boundaries between the two
Input Raw materials, energy
use (and reuse) of product output materials that can be recycled ot disposed of Waste energy
congeneration
use furl to generate electricity and produce heat (AKA combined heat and power)
open-pit mining
uses lots of visual pits/ holes in the ground to mine
reuse
using a product or material that was intended to be discarded
Type III survivorship curve
very high early mortality but the few survivors then live long and stay reproductive; ex/ oysters
source reduction
waste management approach with the goal to cut waste by reducing the use of potential waste materials in the early stages of design and manufacture
Growth Progress Indicator (GPI)
water bodies such as lakes and estuaries receive excess nutrients from a variety of sources (primarily agriculture, aquaculture and sewage) setting off a cascade of environmental changes.
nutrification
water bodies such as lakes and estuaries receive excess nutrients from a variety of sources (primarily agriculture, aquaculture and sewage) setting off a cascade of environmental changes.
explain why water is an important component of most environmental ecosystems
water facilitates the transfer of chemical elements and compounds from one system to another. The molecular structure of water gives it unique properties that support the conditions necessary for life on Earth. These properties are essential to physiological functioning of plants and animals and the movement of elements through systems.
runoff
water that moves across the land surface ans into streams and rivers
describe some of the unique challenges and limitations of environmental science
we don't have a "control planet" to compare the conditions of earth today. Assessments and choices are often subjective because there is no single measure off environmental quality environmental systems are so complex that they are poorly understood, and human preferences and policies may affect them as much as do natural laws.
subsurface mining
when desired resource of more then 100m (328 ft) below the surface of the earth
resource partitioning
when two species divide a resource based on differences in their behavior or morphology
disphotic
which is illuminated but so poorly that rates of respiration exceed those of photosynthesis.
intra
with in
E horizon
zone of leaching, or elevation found in dome acidic soils under the O horizon or (less often) the A horizon