APES Midterm

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Directions: The following questions(s) refer to the following climatographs. Which environment is characterized by the highest diversity of tree species?

Which age-structure diagram best depicts the ages in a population that is in stage 3 of the demographic transition? A) )/\( B) /\ C) U (but upside down) D) O (75% of it but like with a flat bottom

If the population of a country is growing at a rate of 1.75 percent per year, the population will double in approximately how many years? A 30 years B 40 years C 50 years D 70 years E 140 years

40 years

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the locations marked by letters on the world map below. Each set of lettered choices below refers to the numbered questions or statements immediately following it. Select the one lettered choice that best answers each question or best fits each statement and then fill in the corresponding oval on the answer sheet. A choice may be used once, more than once, or not at all in each set. The intraplate location where hot-spot volcanism is occurring

If an area was originally forested and then underwent urban development, which of the following shows the most likely effects on various parts of the water cycle in the area? (Note: ↑ represents an increase; ↓ represents a decrease)

Which of the following graphs best displays population size over time of an r-selected species that has just colonized a new habitat with abundant resources? A j-curve B Bell Curve C j-curve to small bell curve D

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following questions(s) refer to the lettered points of the curves plotted on the graph below. The curves show two possible patterns of change in population size over time for a certain species of small mammal in an ecosystem. Population decreasing at greatest rate

In a human population undergoing the demographic transition, which of the following generally decreases first? A Birth rate B Death rate C Average family size D Life expectancy E Level of education

Death rate

Of the following organisms, which occupies the lowest trophic level? A Spider B Deer C Lion D Hawk E Snake

Deer

A point source discharges organic waste into a stream. Which of the following graphs best depicts the expected pattern for dissolved oxygen (DO) in this stream as a function of distance from the discharge point? A) ____ _____ \/ B) |\_______ -----| C) /\ ____/ \______ D) )\____ E) ______ ______ (/

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the locations marked by letters on the world map below. Each set of lettered choices below refers to the numbered questions or statements immediately following it. Select the one lettered choice that best answers each question or best fits each statement and then fill in the corresponding oval on the answer sheet. A choice may be used once, more than once, or not at all in each set. The location where one tectonic plate is being forced beneath another, creating a volcanic arc.

Directions: The following questions(s) refer to the five graphs shown below, which illustrate different relationships between populations and time. Which graph best illustrates a population that was growing and has reached its carrying capacity?

Directions: The following questions(s) refer to the lettered areas of the map below. Area that exhibits island arcs A)A: middle of the coast of South America B)B: middle of atlantic ocean C)C: Inland by India D)D: Top of Africa E)E: Island by Australia that isn't New Zealand

The diagram above illustrates how the number of individuals in a population changed with time as a result of external stresses and resource limitations. Which lettered portion of the curve most likely corresponds to the carrying capacity of the ecosystem?

All of the following statements about invasive exotic species are true EXCEPT: A They may compete with native species for food. B They may prey on native species. C They are generally introduced by human activity. D They may be plant or animal species. E They tend to have low reproductive rates.

E They tend to have low reproductive rates.

Nitrogen Fixation: N2+3H2→2NH3 Nitrification: 2NH3+3O2→2NO2+2H2O+2H+ Denitrification: 2NO3−+2CH2O+2H+→N2O+2CO2+3H2O The table above shows the balanced chemical equations that represent three processes that are part of the nitrogen cycle. Which of the following is exemplified by the equations above? A Approximately 10%10% of energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next. B In a food web, energy flows and matter is cycled. C Each biogeochemical cycle demonstrates the conservation of matter. D The major reserve for nitrogen is in the atmosphere.

Each biogeochemical cycle demonstrates the conservation of matter.

Which of the following characteristics in the table best supports the claim that Country A is a more developed country and that Country B is a less developed country? Country A Country B Population size 126 million 34 million Land Area 145,936miles2 252,072miles2 Infant Mortality Rate 20 out of 1,000 110.6 out of 1,000 Net migration rate 0.5 out of 1,000 -0.9 out of 1,000 A Population size B Land area C Infant mortality rate D Net migration rate

Infant mortality rate

The graph below shows three different survivorship curves. Cycads are gymnosperms that were diverse and abundant during the Mesozoic era. Extant species of cycads share many traits with those from the Mesozoic era. Cycads bear cones, are long-lived with slow growth rates, show late reproductive maturity, and have very few offspring. Based on this description, the cycads are A K-strategists with a Type I survivorship curve. B r-strategists with a Type III survivorship curve. C K-strategists with a Type III survivorship curve. D r-strategists with a Type II survivorship curve.

K-strategists with a Type I survivorship curve.

As urbanization increases and natural soil surfaces are covered, the groundwater supply is reduced due to A increased evaporation and transpiration B decreased surface runoff C loss of recharge area D confinement of aquifers E capping of artesian wells

loss of recharge area

This biome is warm and wet, with little seasonal variation in temperature and frequent precipitation. A Savanna B Boreal forest C Tropical rain forest D Desert

Tropical rain forest

All of the following are commonly used to deal with the side effects of eutrophication in lakes EXCEPT A applying herbicides to kill nuisance plants B dredging out lakes to deepen them C pumping oxygen into the lowest layers of water D introducing insects that eat certain nuisance plants E adding nitrates

adding nitrates

Eutrophication results in the death of trout and other fish as a result of A toxic pH levels in the water B asphyxiation from lack of oxygen C toxic levels of mercury in the water D toxic concentrations of salt in the water E a lack of sufficient minerals in the water

asphyxiation from lack of oxygen

In the graph (S-shaped curve and k is a dotted line that is horizontal on the same level as where the s-shaped curve leveled off) below charting the growth of a population of organisms, the line labeled K represents the... A biotic potential of the organism B doubling time of the population in the environment C carrying capacity of the population D reproductive lag time of the organism E intrinsic rate of increase of the population in the environment

carrying capacity of the population

The factor that likely poses the greatest threat of extinction of species worldwide is A weakening of environmental legislation B increase in hunting and fishing C aggressive collecting of specimens by museums and zoos D black-market trade in endangered species E increasing loss of habitat

increasing loss of habitat

The process in the hydrologic cycle in which water vapor is released from leaves into the atmosphere is called A infiltration B transpiration C sublimation D reflection E percolation

transpiration

Directions: The following questions(s) refer to the lettered areas of the map below. Area where new crust is being created at a divergent plate boundary A)A: middle of the coast of South America B)B: middle of atlantic ocean C)C: Inland by India D)D: Top of Africa E)E: Island by Australia that isn't New Zealand

The graphs above show the population size and distribution of beak sizes in a finch population on the island of Daphne Major in the Galapagos in 1976 and 1978. Smaller-beaked finches are better suited for eating grasses and small seeds. Larger-beaked finches are better suited for cracking larger seeds and nuts. In 1977 a drought took place and the vegetation of the island was affected by the lack of rain. Which of the following was the number of finches in the population with a beak size of 10.2 mm in 1978? A) 8 B) 12 C) 40 D) 65

Which letter correctly identifies a process of the hydrologic cycle in which the phase of water is changed from a liquid to a gas?

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the figure below. A (J-Shaped curve), B (up & down), C (S-Shaped curve), and D(positive diagonal line) represent population growth curves, E represents the carrying capacity. Represents the growth of a population predicted by the logistic model

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the locations marked by letters on the world map below. Each set of lettered choices below refers to the numbered questions or statements immediately following it. Select the one lettered choice that best answers each question or best fits each statement and then fill in the corresponding oval on the answer sheet. A choice may be used once, more than once, or not at all in each set. The location where new crust is being created at a divergent plate boundary

Directions: The following questions(s) refer to the following climatographs. Which environment is most likely to be characterized by dry scrub with frequent fires?

Directions: The following questions(s) refer to the lettered areas of the map below. Area that exhibits a growing nonvolcanic mountain chain due to uplift A)A: middle of the coast of South America B)B: middle of atlantic ocean C)C: Inland by India D)D: Top of Africa E)E: Island by Australia that isn't New Zealand

The graph above shows the effect of sewage on biological oxygen demand (BOD) and dissolved oxygen (DO) in a flowing stream. The smallest fish populations will most probably be found at point

The graph below shows three different survivorship curves. Scientists determined that a species of a reptile dinosaur cohort had 20% survivorship during the first two years of life, but then the survivorship of those individuals that survived to age 2 had a 70% survivorship to middle age. Survivorship declined later in life. Which of the following best illustrates the shape of the survivorship curve for this species? A |~ B \ \ \ \ |___ C ~\ D ------- | |

Until 2005 the entire Postawko Creek Watershed in Fremont County consisted of a national forest interspersed with hay meadows and houses on lots with a minimum size of five acres. In 2005 Farmer Cobb opened a dairy farm in the watershed, and the citizens of Fremont County became concerned that the runoff from the dairy farm would negatively impact the water quality of the watershed. Scientists employed by the county collected water quality data at five sites in the watershed; some of the data are compiled in the table above. Based on these data, which site is most likely immediately downstream from the dairy farm? A Site A B Site B C Site C D Site D E Site E

The major reservoirs of nitrogen and sulfur in the biosphere are correctly identified by which of the following? A) Nitrogen: Rocks Sulfur: Rocks B)Nitrogen: Rocks Sulfur: Vegetation C) Nitrogen: Rocks Sulfur: Atmosphere D) Nitrogen: Atmosphere Sulfur: Rocks E) Nitrogen: Atmosphere Sulfur: Atmosphere

For a primary producer, the main function of photosynthesis is to manufacture A oxygen B carbon dioxide C glucose D proteins E water

glucose

Of the following ecosystems, which has the lowest net primary productivity, measured as kilocalories of energy produced per square meter per year? A Taiga (boreal forest) B Open ocean C Temperature grassland D Estuary E Agricultural land

Open ocean

If a city of population 10,000 experiences 100 births, 40 deaths, 10 immigrants, and 30 emigrants in the course of a year, what is its net annual percentage growth rate? A 0.4% B 0.8% C 1.0% D 4.0% E 8.0%

0.4%

If a country has a crude birth rate of 24 per 1,000 and a crude death rate of 8 per 1,000, the natural annual percent increase of its population is A 0.6% B 1.6% C 3% D 16% E 32%

1.6%

Directions: The following questions(s) refer to the following graph. At which time after clear-cutting does the ecosystem exhibit the greatest species richness? A 50 years B 100 years C 150 years D 200 years E 250 years

100 years

If the population of a country grows at a rate of approximately 5 percent per year, the number of years required for the population to double is closest to A 5 years B 10 years C 15 years D 25 years E 35 years

15 years

In a given ecosystem, producers convert solar energy into 15,000kcal of chemical energy stored in organic compounds. Which of the following is the most likely amount of energy available to secondary consumers? A 1.5kcal B 150kcal C 1,500kcal D 13,500kcal

150kcal

Approximately what percent of the water on Earth is freshwater (liquid and solid)? A 75% B 25% C 2.5% D 0.25% E 0.025%

2.5%

The net annual primary productivity of a particular wetland ecosystem is found to be 8,000 kcal/m2 per year. If respiration by the aquatic producers is 12,000 kcal/m2 per year, what is the gross annual primary productivity for this ecosystem, in kcal/m2 per year? A 4,000 B 8,000 C 12,000 D 20,000 E 96,000

20,000

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the histograms below, which show age structure expressed as percentage of population for Countries I, II, and II in 1990. Approximately what percent of the population in Country II is under age 15? A 1% B 5% C 10% D 25% E 50%

25%

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the graph below which shows the monthly average CO2 concentration, in parts per million, as measured at Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii. According to the graph, the increase in CO2 concentration, in parts per million, between 1970 and 1990 is closest to A 5 ppm B 30 ppm C 50 ppm D 340 ppm E 355 ppm

30 ppm

The atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide increased from 278 ppm in 1790 to 383 ppm in 2007. What is the approximate percent increase in carbon dioxide concentration from 1790 to 2007? A 38% B 50% C 92% D 105% E 138%

38%

A country currently has a population of 100 million and an annual growth rate of 3.5 percent. If the growth rate remains constant, what will be the population of this country in 40 years? A 150 million B 200 million C 300 million D 400 million E 800 million

400 million

Algae in an aquatic food chain convert solar energy into 93,000 kilocalories of plant tissue. Which of the following values best represents the amount of energy available for primary consumers in the food chain? A 930 kilocalories B 9,300 kilocalories C 93,000 kilocalories D 930,000 kilocalories

9,300 kilocalories

Algae in an aquatic food chain convert solar energy into 93,000 kilocalories of plant tissue. Which of the following values best represents the amount of energy available for secondary consumers in the food chain? A 930 kilocalories B 9,300 kilocalories C 93,000 kilocalories D 930,000 kilocalories

930 kilocalories

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the figure below. A, B, C, and D represent population growth curves, E represents the carrying capacity. Represents the biotic potential of the species

Which of the following statements about levels of biodiversity is correct? A Genetic biodiversity is a measure of the total number of genes in a community. B A narrow distribution of habitats leads to an increase in species diversity. C Global hotspots are areas where species diversity is thriving due to habitat restoration. D A population with high genetic biodiversity is better able to respond to environmental stressors.

A population with high genetic biodiversity is better able to respond to environmental stressors.

Highly specialized species tend to evolve on islands because of the environmental conditions and resource availability. Based on the theory of island biogeography, which of the following would most likely experience the greatest decline of specialist species if an invasive species emigrated from the mainland? A A small island a far distance from the mainland B A small island in close proximity to the mainland C A large island a far distance from the mainland D A large island in close proximity to the mainland

A small island in close proximity to the mainland

Which of the following diagrams correctly illustrates the nitrogen cycle? A) N2 -> NH4 -> NO2 -> NO3 -> N2 B) NH4 -> N2 -> NH4 -> NO3 -> NH3 -> N2 C) NH4 -> H2NO3 ->NH3 -> Tree NH4 -> H2NO3 ->NH3 -> N2 -> NO2 -> N2 D) NO3 -> NO2 -> N2 -> NH4 -> NH3 -> NO3 E) NO2 -> NO3 -> N2 -> NH3 -> NH4 -> tree ->

A) N2 -> NH4 -> NO2 -> NO3 -> N2

Little is known about Africa's elusive aardvarks, but new research says they are vulnerable to climate change like many other species. Hotter temperatures are taking their toll on the aardvark, whose diet of ants and termites is becoming scarcer in some areas because of reduced rainfall. Drought in the Kalahari Desert killed five out of six aardvarks that were being monitored for a year, as well as 11 others in the area. The aardvarks' body temperatures plummeted during the night because they were not getting enough energy from diminished food sources. They tried to conserve energy by looking for insects during the warmer daytime, but their efforts to adapt could not save them. Researchers said some birds, reptiles and other animals use aardvark burrows to escape extreme temperatures, reproduce, and hide from predators. They could have fewer refuges available if aardvark populations shrink because of rising temperatures, they said. The aardvark, which lives in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa, is identified as an animal of "least concern" on an international "red list" of threatened species. There are no indications that the population is changing significantly in southern Africa, though it is speculated that numbers may be declining elsewhere because of habitat destruction, the bushmeat trade and other factors. "Study Finds aardvarks suffering as African climate heats up," Christopher Torchia, Phys.org, July 31, 2017. Which of the following best identifies the author's claim? A Aardvarks are shifting the location of their territories as a response to global climate change. B Aardvarks are a keystone species and their decline could have a trophic cascade effect on the ecosystem. C The loss of aardvarks described in the study was an isolated incident because most aardvark populations are increasing globally. D Providing aardvarks with more burrows will help them maintain their body temperature and increase survival rates.

Aardvarks are a keystone species and their decline could have a trophic cascade effect on the ecosystem.

Which of the following regions of the ocean is LEAST likely to contain photosynthetic organisms? A Intertidal zone B Zone of coastal upwelling C Pelagic zone D Euphotic zone E Abyssal zone

Abyssal zone

By the year 2050, world population is expected to approach 10 billion. If the current population trends continue, which region of the world will most likely experience the majority of the growth? A North and Central America B Central and South America C Eastern and Western Europe D Africa and Asia E Australia and New Zealand

Africa and Asia

Which of the following claims is best supported by the data in the graph? A The temperature of Earth rises and biodiversity increases immediately after a volcanic eruption. B The carrying capacity of plants in the area is approximately 250 species. C After the volcanic eruption, pioneer species colonized the area and the ecosystem began to undergo succession. D Plant species that are well adapted will survive and reproduce, leading to a change in the ecosystem biodiversity through the process of natural selection.

After the volcanic eruption, pioneer species colonized the area and the ecosystem began to undergo succession.

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the following processes. (A) Nitrification (B) Denitrification (C) Assimilation (D) Ammonification (E) Nitrogen fixation Plant roots absorb ammonium ions and nitrate ions for use in making molecules such as DNA, amino acids, and proteins. A Nitrification B Denitrification C Assimilation D Ammonification E Nitrogen fixation

Assimilation

A field is abandoned, and an invasive plant that can live in nutrient-poor soil moves into the field. If the land is later cleared of this invasive species and it is discovered that the soil has an abundance of nitrogen compounds, what conclusion can best be made? A The plants used up all of the phosphorus and potassium and left the nitrogen behind. B Primary succession always produces an abundance of nitrogen. C Bacteria in soil and in root nodules converted free nitrogen into nitrogen compounds. D The plants were able to produce nitrogen in their leaves. E More rock was weathered and broken down to release nitrogen compounds.

Bacteria in soil and in root nodules converted free nitrogen into nitrogen compounds.

Bull trout use a bewildering array of strategies to aid in their survival, from remaining in streams their whole lives, like rainbow trout, to spending part of their lives in the ocean before returning to streams to spawn, just as salmon do. Bull trout are present in only one of two neighboring rivers in the Olympic peninsula, Washington state, and in this one (the Elwha River), where two large dams were removed. Dam removal resulted in massive outflow of sediments, reducing the clarity of the water and also building up a large delta and expanding the size of the estuary at the mouth of the Elwha River. Sampling for bull trout before, during, and after dam removal was used to detect whether bull trout changed their use of the Elwha River estuary or moved into the adjacent Salt Creek stream where they were formerly absent. Sampling revealed no movement into Salt Creek, but numbers of bull trout in the Elwha River estuary increased greatly during and immediately after dam removal, coinciding with large sediment outflow, before returning to their original low levels. Thus, bull trout appear to have used the enlarged estuary as a refuge from the effects of dam removal, then returning to the river when the river water cleared up from the sediment. Of additional interest is the long-term response of bull trout to the additional habitat opened up above the former dams. Lincoln, A. E., J. A. Shaffer, and T. P. Quinn. 2018. Opportunistic use of estuarine habitat by juvenile Bull Trout, Salvelinus confluentus, from the Elwha River before, during, and after dam removal. Environmental Biology of Fishes 101:1559-1569 Which of the following best identifies the author's claim? A Bull trout experienced high mortality rates as a result of the formation of the estuary and sediments released during dam deconstruction. B Bull trout are adaptable to a variety of habitats and were able to survive in the river habitat during the dam deconstruction. C Bull trout remained in the estuary system after the dam deconstruction because the disruption had irreversibly altered the river habitat. D Bull trout are unable to live in high sediment loaded waters and migrated to avoid the conditions introduced during dam deconstruction.

Bull trout are unable to live in high sediment loaded waters and migrated to avoid the conditions introduced during dam deconstruction.

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following questions(s) refer to the following elements. (A) Carbon (B) Sodium (C) Sulfur (D) Phosphorus (E) Potassium Marine sediments that form limestone are a major sink for this element. A Carbon B Sodium C Sulfur D Phosphorus E Potassium

Carbon

How does the burning of fossil fuels contribute to the net increase in atmospheric carbon? A Photosynthesis is reduced by virtue of increased smoke and haze. B Carbon released by the burning is not in a form that can be readily absorbed by plants, leaving residual carbon in the atmosphere. C Carbon that has been sequestered underground is added to the carbon cycling between the atmosphere and the biosphere. D Carbon released by the burning is more easily absorbed in the atmosphere than that produced by natural means. E Carbon released by the burning increases plant growth, producing more carbon for the atmosphere.

Carbon that has been sequestered underground is added to the carbon cycling between the atmosphere and the biosphere.

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the following possible relationships between organisms in an ecosystem. (A) Commensalism (B) Parasitism (C) Mutualism (D) Predation (E) Competition Exemplified by moss growing on a tree trunk in a forest A Commensalism B Parasitism C Mutualism D Predation E Competition

Commensalism

An alpine area of a national park near a trail is normally covered by plants, but much of the area is now bare soil. Park rangers suspect that trampling by hikers has killed the plants. Which of the following will best test the hypothesis? A Counting the number of hikers leaving the trail in comparison with the number of hikers leaving other trails B Counting the number of plants along the trail in comparison with the number of plants along other trails C Comparing the number of hikers this year to the number of hikers last year on various trails D Comparing plant survivorship in areas where hikers stay on the trail with plant survivorship in the area where hikers leave the trail E Comparing the ages, heights, and weights of hikers on different trails

Comparing plant survivorship in areas where hikers stay on the trail with plant survivorship in the area where hikers leave the trail

Which of the following best describes an advantage of constructing habitat corridors? A Corridors connect habitats separated by fragmentation and connect wildlife populations. B Corridors prevent invasive species from traveling between protected habitats. C Corridors provide a safe passage for vehicles and allow humans to travel within wildlife preserves. D Corridors increase the amount of protected area that is not affected by humans.

Corridors connect habitats separated by fragmentation and connect wildlife populations.

Which of the following countries is most likely represented in the age structure diagram shown above?

Country B

Which of the following countries has achieved replacement-level fertility?

Country C

Decomposers

The diagram below shows a simplified carbon cycle. Based on the diagram above, which process most directly results in the storage of carbon as coal and oil over millions of years? A Photosynthesis B Cellular respiration C Decomposition D Burning of fossil fuels

Decomposition

Based on the diagram, which of the following is an expected consequence of runoff and sewage in an aquatic environment? A Decreased oxygen levels in surface water as a result of a decrease in photosynthetic rates by algae B Increased oxygen levels in bottom water from increased rates of cellular respiration in decomposers C Decreased oxygen production by seaweed on the seafloor from an increase in turbidity D Increased oxygen production by decomposition of dead fish and other aquatic organisms

Decreased oxygen production by seaweed on the seafloor from an increase in turbidity

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the following processes. (A) Nitrification (B) Denitrification (C) Assimilation (D) Ammonification (E) Nitrogen fixation Nitrate ions and nitrite ions are converted into nitrous oxide gas and nitrogen gas (N2). A Nitrification B Denitrification C Assimilation D Ammonification E Nitrogen fixation

Denitrification

Which of the following pathways indicate how nitrogen is added to the largest nitrogen reservoir? A Nitrifying bacteria and lightning B Decomposing plant and animal material C Denitrifying bacteria and volcanic activity D Nitrates taken up by plant roots

Denitrifying bacteria and volcanic activity

Which of the following identifies the two factors thought to be the most harmful to biodiversity? A Acid deposition and increased use of fertilizers for agriculture B Depletion of the ozone layer and oil drilling C Destruction of habitat and invasion by nonnative species D Changes in climate and proliferation of endemic species E Global warming and decline in fisheries

Destruction of habitat and invasion by nonnative species

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the qualities of water samples. Acidity Turbidity Hardness Dissolved oxygen Salinity Decreased by the breakdown of organic waste A Acidity B Turbidity C Hardness D Dissolved oxygen E Salinity

Dissolved oxygen

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the figure below. A (J-Shaped curve), B (up & down), C (S-Shaped curve), and D(positive diagonal line) represent population growth curves, E represents the carrying capacity. Represents the maximum number of individuals that can be supported by a particular ecosystem on a long-term basis

Which of the following best describes how an anthropogenic activity can increase ocean acidification? A Emissions from power plants that burn fossil fuels increase atmospheric carbon dioxide, which is absorbed by the ocean. B A spill from an oil rig in the ocean can have acute toxic effects on fish and other aquatic organisms, which disrupt the aquatic food web. C Tourist activities in coastal areas increase the concentration of sunscreen in the water, which decreases the photosynthetic rates of aquatic producers and increases the pHpH of the ocean. D During and after a major volcanic eruption, large amounts of greenhouse gases, aerosols, and ash are released into the stratosphere, which affects global climate.

Emissions from power plants that burn fossil fuels increase atmospheric carbon dioxide, which is absorbed by the ocean.

Which of the following best describes the movement of energy in an ecosystem? A Energy is constantly recycled by decomposers for use by producers. B Energy is harnessed by producers, and available energy decreases with each trophic level transfer. C Energy is absorbed by plants through water and soil and then moves up the food chain through consumers. D Energy is magnified as it moves up the trophic levels, and tertiary consumers store the most energy in a food web.

Energy is harnessed by producers, and available energy decreases with each trophic level transfer.

Which of the following characteristically produces non-point-source pollution? A Seepage from a landfill B Industrial effluent C Testing of nuclear weapons D Erosion from agricultural land E Overflow from a sewage treatment plant

Erosion from agricultural land

If wastewater treatment plant effluent that contains nitrates and phosphates is allowed to flow into a body of water, which of the following may result? A Chlorination B Decomposition C Eutrophication D Oxygenation E Methylation

Eutrophication

Which of the following changes to the local hydrologic cycle will result if large areas of land experienced clear-cutting? A Transpiration of water from vegetation will increase. B Evaporation of water from the soil will increase. C Runoff from watersheds will decrease. D Siltation of local streams will decrease.

Evaporation of water from the soil will increase.

Of the following, which is the best example of a point source of water pollution? A Factory effluent B Storm water C Acid precipitation D Agricultural runoff E Residential pesticide runoff

Factory effluent

Which of the following examples includes both a point and a nonpoint source of pollution? A A factory smokestack and a sewage overflow B Runoff from city streets and pesticides from agricultural fields C Waste from animal feedlots and sediment from construction sites D Fertilizer from suburban lawns and wastewater from a water treatment plant

Fertilizer from suburban lawns and wastewater from a water treatment plant

Based on the diagram, which of the following best describes how a malfunctioning air compressor would affect the process of sewage treatment? A The oxygen concentration in the aeration tank would increase. B The settling of large debris, such as wood, from the water would be prevented. C Fewer bacteria would be available to absorb dissolved organics in the tank. D The sludge pump would return activated sludge to the aeration tank at a slower pace.

Fewer bacteria would be available to absorb dissolved organics in the tank.

Scientists calculated the net primary productivity at two different forest sites. Both forests have the same gross primary productivity. Forest A has a net primary productivity of 1,650kcal/m2/year, and forest B has a net primary productivity of 1,110kcal/m2/year. Which of the following statements is best supported by the data? A Forest A has a higher rate of decomposition by bacteria than forest B. B Forest A has more biodiversity than forest B. C Forest A producers have lower rates of cellular respiration than forest B producers. D Forest A producers have more biomass than forest B producers.

Forest A has a higher rate of decomposition by bacteria than forest B.

Which of the following can be used to assess the biological diversity of an area? A Population size of each species and area occupied by each population B Minimum population area and minimum viable population size C Ratio of r-strategists to K-strategists and life expectancy of K-strategists D Number of individuals under fifteen years old and number of individuals over sixty-five years old E Genetic variation within each species and number of species present

Genetic variation within each species and number of species present

Which of the following best describes gross primary productivity in an ecosystem? A Gross primary productivity is the total amount of energy captured by producers plus the energy used by consumers over time. B Gross primary productivity is the total amount of energy captured by producers minus the energy that producers respire over time. C Gross primary productivity is the total amount of energy lost as heat during energy transfer between trophic levels. D Gross primary productivity is the total amount of solar energy captured by producers through photosynthesis over time.

Gross primary productivity is the total amount of solar energy captured by producers through photosynthesis over time.

Researchers have found that over the last twenty years there are fewer native plants in the alpine meadows of the Rocky Mountains east of Salt Lake City and that the abundance of two species of invasive grasses has increased. Which of the following questions is most appropriate to ask when investigating the cause of the change in the alpine meadows? A Has an increase in soil nitrates from air pollution allowed the invasive grasses to outcompete the native plants? B Has the increased level of tropospheric ozone raised the soil pH of the meadows to a level that the native plants cannot tolerate? C Has an increased frequency of El Niño events led to drought conditions, thereby making the alpine soils too dry for native species? D Has an increase in the population of wolves led to an increase in the population of deer that eat native plants? E Has fire suppression accompanied by prolonged drought increased the abundance of native shrubs?

Has an increase in soil nitrates from air pollution allowed the invasive grasses to outcompete the native plants?

Hawks and snakes

Mercury concentrations were measured in freshwater shrimp populations in two different ponds, one polluted with mercury and one unpolluted, with a similar food web in each pond. Which of the following best identifies the scientific question that would guide this investigation? A How do different species of shrimp excrete mercury from their bodies? B How does the food web in a pond affect biomagnification of toxins? C How much mercury accumulates in the tissues of freshwater shrimp living in a polluted pond? D How much mercury is found in the tissues of shrimp predators in an unpolluted pond?

How much mercury accumulates in the tissues of freshwater shrimp living in a polluted pond?

Elements that cycle in the environment and that also have a gaseous phase at some point in their cycle include which of the following? |. Carbon ||. Phosphorus |||. Sulfur A I only B III only C I and II only D I and III only E I, II, and III

I and III only

Characteristics that tend to increase the risk of a species becoming endangered include which of the following? |. Having a very limited distribution ||. Being a specialist at the end of a long food chain |||. Having a small population size A I only B II only C III only D II and III only E I, II, and III

I, II, and III

Factors that affect the total fertility rate of a human population include which of the following? |. Cultural traditions ||. Government policies and economic incentives |||. Education level and economic opportunities for females A I only B II only C I and II only D II and III only E I, II, and III

I, II, and III

Where is the majority of fresh water found on Earth? A Groundwater B Ice caps and glaciers C Lakes D Oceans

Ice caps and glaciers

Which of the following describes an aspect of urbanization that would most increase the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere compared to rural and suburban areas? A A greater amount of impermeable surfaces in urban areas that prevents organic material from entering soils B Reliance on mass transportation systems in urban areas, such as buses and trains rather than individual cars and trucks, which increases carbon dioxide release C Decreased square footage of living space, per person, in most housing units in urban areas that leads to an increased carbon footprint D Increased amounts of waste per unit area in urban areas that leads to higher rates of decay and decomposition

Increased amounts of waste per unit area in urban areas that leads to higher rates of decay and decomposition

Which of the following events would most likely lead to a decrease in the pH in the oceans? A Decreased deforestation in agricultural areas B Decreased vehicular emissions from cars and trucks C Increased burning of fossil fuels in power plants D Increased rates of photosynthesis in terrestrial ecosystems

Increased burning of fossil fuels in power plants

Which of the following would most likely result from the deforestation of large areas of tropical rain forests caused by slash-and-burn agriculture? A Increased ozone thinning because of the release of CFCs B Decreased acid rain because of the sequestration of SO2 C Increased global temperature because of the release of CO2 D Deceased evaporation because of the loss of the tree canopy

Increased global temperature because of the release of CO2

The diagrams above show an area that was once a pasture that has since undergone changes to the vegetation over time. Which of the following changes in the hydrologic cycle is most likely to occur as a result of the change in vegetation in the area? (Cows -> trees) A Increased infiltration B Increased runoff C Decreased transpiration D Decreased precipitation

Increased infiltration

Significant increases in water temperature can drastically change dissolved oxygen (DO) levels in a lake. Why does the combined effect of these two environmental changes result in algal blooms? A Low dissolved oxygen leads to death for aerobic organisms, like fish, whose decomposition provides an overabundance of nutrients for the algae, resulting in the large blooms. B Increased temperature causes an increase in metabolic rates of fish and insects. Increased metabolism results in increased waste from aquatic organisms, which provides energy for the algae to grow rapidly. C Increased temperature and low dissolved oxygen drive aquatic animals out of the area. The lack of competition gives the algae more nutrients for reproduction. D Increased temperature leads to an increase in dissolved oxygen. The higher oxygen content increases the rates of cellular respiration and reproduction, resulting in an increased population of algae.

Increased temperature leads to an increase in dissolved oxygen. The higher oxygen content increases the rates of cellular respiration and reproduction, resulting in an increased population of algae.

Which of the following best describes an environmental advantage of urbanization? A Individuals living in cities have more varied employment opportunities than individuals living in rural areas. B Individuals living in cities have greater access to health care than individuals living in rural areas. C Individuals living in cities usually have greater access to fresh, local agricultural products than individuals living in rural areas. D Individuals living in cities usually have a lower transportation carbon footprint than individuals living in rural areas.

Individuals living in cities usually have a lower transportation carbon footprint than individuals living in rural areas.

Which of the following is a way to potentially eliminate one of the greatest threats to the world's mangrove wetlands? A Increase desalination to reduce the effects of prolonged drought in mangroves. B Integrate ecologically sound shrimp aquacultural practices with mangrove management. C Construct dams in mangroves to increase sediment load and decrease pollution. D Employ irrigation methods to address potential desertification of mangrove habitats.

Integrate ecologically sound shrimp aquacultural practices with mangrove management.

Which of the following biomes is best characterized as an area that forms the narrow band along the coast that experiences a range of environmental conditions (including daily changes in sunlight, temperature, and water) ? A Open ocean B Lakes C Coral reefs D Intertidal zones

Intertidal zones

Which of the following is a true statement about replacement-level fertility? A It equals the average number of children a woman will give birth to during her child-bearing years. B It equals the annual number of live births per 1,000 people in a population. C It equals the natural increase of a population in one year. D It is found by subtracting the number of emigrants from the number of immigrants in one year. E It is greater in countries with high infant-mortality rates than in countries with low infant-mortality rates.

It is greater in countries with high infant-mortality rates than in countries with low infant-mortality rates.

Industrial logging threatens many forested ecosystems. Which of the following environmental consequences will most likely result from clear-cutting deciduous forests for logging? A More carbon dioxide will be added to the atmosphere and increase anthropogenic climate change. B Farmers will be able to utilize more land, resulting in a decrease in the number of floods. C Less oxygen will be used by the trees, so more oxygen will be in the atmosphere for humans and other animals to use. D The regulating services of the area, such as nutrient cycling and water regulation, would increase with fewer trees in the landscape.

More carbon dioxide will be added to the atmosphere and increase anthropogenic climate change.

Which of the following best describes the net primary productivity of an ecosystem? A Net primary productivity is the amount of energy captured by producers through photosynthesis over time. B Net primary productivity is the amount of energy lost by producers through respiration over time. C Net primary productivity is the amount of energy lost through respiration by producers subtracted from the gross primary productivity of an ecosystem. D Net primary productivity is the amount of energy lost through respiration by producers added to the gross primary productivity of an ecosystem.

Net primary productivity is the amount of energy lost through respiration by producers subtracted from the gross primary productivity of an ecosystem.

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the following processes. (A) Nitrification (B) Denitrification (C) Assimilation (D) Ammonification (E) Nitrogen fixation Ammonia is converted to nitrite, then to nitrate. A Nitrification B Denitrification C Assimilation D Ammonification E Nitrogen fixation

Nitrification

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the following elements. (A) Oxygen (B) Aluminum (C) Iron (D) Nitrogen (E) Argon The most abundant element in Earth's atmosphere A Oxygen B Aluminum C Iron D Nitrogen E Argon

Nitrogen

A North Carolina timber company proposes to clear-cut 45 hectares of oak-hickory deciduous forest in the Appalachian Mountains. The company has said that the forest will regrow naturally, and 50 years after the clear-cutting the company plans to harvest again, cutting all the oaks and hickories that have at least a 40-centimeter diameter. A local citizens' group claims that this is not a realistic plan. Which of the following, if true, best supports the claim of the citizens' group? A Harvesting oak and hickory will disrupt the soil in the first year after clear-cutting; oaks and hickories cannot germinate that first year. B Oak and hickory are late-successional species; pioneer species will dominate for many decades before the oaks and hickories are reestablished. C Coniferous forests can regrow after having been clear-cut; the biome will change to a boreal forest after clear-cutting. D Populations of large carnivores in the forest will decline after clear-cutting occurs; deer hunting will suffer as a result. E Erosion rates on the slopes of the Appalachian Mountains will decrease after clear-cutting; many new species will move into the forest.

Oak and hickory are late-successional species; pioneer species will dominate for many decades before the oaks and hickories are reestablished.

The tropical rain forests are known to have a large variety of animals. One example is the orchid mantis that is highly camouflaged when standing on a certain species of orchid found in tropical environments. Another species, the tropical cockroach, can live anywhere in the rain forest where it can find water and a food source. Which of the following statements best describes why it is predicted that the orchid mantis will be more affected by global climate change than the tropical cockroach will be? A As the climate changes, the number of orchids is likely to increase, leading to more competition for space by the mantis population. B Orchid mantises tend to be advantaged in habitats that remain constant; the rain forest habitat is likely to shift because of global climate change. C Orchid mantises are generalists, so global climate change will give them more diverse habitats to colonize. D Climate change will lead directly to the clear-cutting of the forests, resulting in a smaller habitat for both the mantis and the tropical cockroach.

Orchid mantises tend to be advantaged in habitats that remain constant; the rain forest habitat is likely to shift because of global climate change.

Which of the following is an effective alternative to chlorine for disinfecting wastewater in a municipal treatment plant? A Freon B Alcohol C Phosphate D Ammonia E Ozone

Ozone

Step P. Water is passed through a screen to remove debris. Step Q. Pathogenic organisms are killed by chlorination, UV, or ozone. Step R. Suspended particles clump and settle out. Step S. A floccing agent, such as alum, is added to the water. The processes described above are steps in the purification and treatment of municipal wastewater. The steps are listed in random order. Which of the following lists the steps in the correct sequence? A S → P → R → Q B S → R → P → Q C Q → S → P → R D P → Q → R → S E P → S → R → Q

P → S → R → Q

A scientist is studying PCBs in tertiary consumers. She wants to determine if PCBs can be found in tertiary consumers even though these compounds were banned in the United States in the 1970s. Which of the following best identifies a testable hypothesis for the study? A PCBs are highly soluble in water, so it is unlikely that the compounds will be found in the liver or kidneys of tertiary consumers because the compounds have been banned. B PCBs are persistent organic compounds that are fat-soluble, so they should be found in the fatty tissues of tertiary consumers even though the compounds have been banned for decades. C PCBs have synergistic effects with other toxins in the environment and are broken down in water and soil, so most tertiary consumers are not directly exposed to them. D PCBs are acutely toxic to most forms of life and quickly kill most organisms upon exposure; therefore, tertiary consumers today would be expected to have high levels of the compound in their tissues.

PCBs are persistent organic compounds that are fat-soluble, so they should be found in the fatty tissues of tertiary consumers even though the compounds have been banned for decades.

Which of the following elements is most likely to limit primary production in freshwater lakes? A Oxygen B Calcium C Phosphorus D Carbon E Iron

Phosphorus

The diagram below shows a simplified carbon cycle. Based on the diagram above, which of the following processes reduces the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere? A Photosynthesis B Cellular respiration C Decomposition D Burning of fossil fuels

Photosynthesis

The greatest amount of fresh water is found in which of the following? A The atmosphere B Estuaries C Lakes D Rivers and streams E Polar ice caps and glaciers

Polar ice caps and glaciers

Which of the following practices would best help to protect against inland and coastal flooding in urban areas? A Regulating the use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture B Preserving wetland and coastal mangrove habitats C Increasing the capacity of the sewer lines so they can handle a larger volume of water D Straightening stream channels to increase stream flow

Preserving wetland and coastal mangrove habitats

The graph below shows data about three tree species after a glacial retreat. Based on the data shown in the graph, which of the following events occurred after the glacial retreat? A Primary succession B Flooding C Sea level rise D Global climate change

Primary succession

In general, which of the following is the best long-term method of preventing extinctions? A Breeding endangered species in captivity B Protecting the habitats of endangered species C Paying people not to kill endangered species D Providing food to endangered species in the wild E Removing predators from areas that contain endangered species

Protecting the habitats of endangered species

In a typical forest ecosystem, dead trees and fallen trees are most important because of their role in which of the following? A Providing a valuable source of timber B Providing habitats for wildlife C Contributing to soil erosion D Increasing water runoff E Removing carbon dioxide from the air

Providing habitats for wildlife

Raccoons eat a variety of foods and can live in a variety of habitats, including locations near humans. Tiger salamanders eat an abundance of worms and insects and require wetland habitats so they do not dry out. Which of the following best identifies the two different species? A Raccoons are decomposers, and tiger salamanders are scavengers. B Raccoons are carnivores, and tiger salamanders are herbivores. C Raccoons are generalists, and salamanders are specialists. D Raccoons have a Type II survivorship curve, and tiger salamanders have a Type I survivorship curve.

Raccoons are generalists, and salamanders are specialists.

Five different species of warblers, seed-eating birds, live in the same species of conifer trees. All of the birds migrate to coniferous forests during the summer, and different species reside in different areas in the same tree. They feed on the seeds of the conifer trees, but the different species do not mate with each other. Which of the following best explains why the different warbler species can all have habitats in the same conifer trees? A Not all the warblers are residents in the forest at the same time of the year because of different migration patterns. B Physiological differences in beak structure allow the warblers to consume different species of seeds through symbiotic relationships. C Resource partitioning of the seeds reduces competition, and the five different species can live in the same tree. D Niche overlap occurs between the five different species, and living in the same tree increases competition for seeds.

Resource partitioning of the seeds reduces competition, and the five different species can live in the same tree.

Restricted circulation

Coal was surface mined from five sites, labeled 1 through 5, that had originally been covered by forest. Each site was planted with a mix of tree seedlings to reclaim the area to forest. Grass was also seeded over each site to prevent initial erosion and to provide forage. Ten years after planting, information was collected at the five sites and is given in the table below. Select the letter of the row that indicates the site with the most successful forest reclamation. Site Number %GrassCover #ofTreeSpeciesSurviving %TreeCover A) 1 90 4 5 B) 2 80 4 10 C) 3 70 4 25 D) 4 50 3 40 E) 5 35 3 65 A Row A B Row B C Row C D Row D E Row E

Row E

Waste from which of the following is an example of nonpoint source pollution? A Overflow from a sewage treatment plant B Outgassing from a municipal landfill C Dumping at a food-processing plant D Drainage from an abandoned mine E Runoff from agricultural fields

Runoff from agricultural fields

Salamanders, ospreys, snapping turtles, and beavers all live in aquatic habitats. Salamanders lay their eggs in small freshwater pools and feed on insects. Osprey habitats include rivers, bays, and swamps and the birds feed on fish and other animals in the water or on land. Snapping turtles live in fresh or brackish water and feed on plants, fish, frogs, and snakes. Beavers build lodges on islands, pond banks, and lake shores and eat a variety of shrubs, grasses, and crops. Based on the information provided above, which of the following species would best be classified as a specialist? A Salamanders B Ospreys C Snapping turtles D Beavers

Salamanders

Overuse of groundwater in coastal areas would most likely result in which of the following? A Rise in water table B Increase in stream flow C Bacterial contamination of surface water D Saltwater intrusion E Decrease in eutrophication Related Content & Skills Topic5.10 SkillSkill 7.A Related Questions on this Quiz

Saltwater intrusion

Which of the following is the best example of a keystone species? A Sea otter B Sea urchin C Spotted owl D Snail darter E Condor

Sea otter

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the following concepts related to energy (A) Heat flow (B) Kinetic energy (C) Potential energy (D) First law of thermodynamics (E) Second law of thermodynamics An energy transformation occurs and results in increased disorder. A Heat flow B Kinetic energy C Potential energy D First law of thermodynamics E Second law of thermodynamics

Second law of thermodynamics

Many synthetic chemicals, such as PCBs, act as estrogen mimics. In an ecosystem, these persistent chemicals would have the greatest effect on which of the following? A Decomposers B Primary producers C Parasites D Secondary consumers E Autotrophs

Secondary consumers

Site WaterTemp. ForestCanopy Turbidity Tot.DissolvedSolids pH A 20 35 10 220 7.2 B 15 80 8 220 7.2 C 22 70 100 2,000 7.0 D 15 80 2 220 7.1 E 15 90 30 800 4.0 Based on the data table above for a stream in Illinois, which site most likely has a construction site immediately upstream from it? A Site A B Site B C Site C D Site D E Site E

Site C

Which of the following best illustrates point-source pollution? A Toxic sediments in the delta of a major river B Increase in NOx in a traffic-clogged city C Dust blowing off unpaved roads D Smoke emitted from forest fires E Smokestack emissions from a large smelting company

Smokestack emissions from a large smelting company

Which of the following species is most likely to be an invasive species if introduced into a favorable new habitat? A Species: Oyster Number of Fertilized Eggs Produced per Year: 5,000,000,000 B Species: Fish Number of Fertilized Eggs Produced per Year: 8,000 C Species: Rabbit Number of Fertilized Eggs Produced per Year: 12 D Species: Bobcat Number of Fertilized Eggs Produced per Year: 2

Species: Oyster Number of Fertilized Eggs Produced per Year: 5,000,000,000

In a certain country, the birth rate is high, the death rate is high, and there are many children that are part of the workforce. The country is most likely in which of the following stages of the demographic transition? A Stage 1 B Stage 2 C Stage 3 D Stage 4

Stage 1

During which stage of the demographic transition shown above does a population begin to experience an explosive increase in growth? A Stage 1 B Stage 2 C Stage 3 D Stage 4 E After stage 4 Related Content & Skills Topic3.9 SkillSkill 2.A Related Questions on this Quiz

Stage 2

The diagram below represents the nitrogen cycle. In the nitrogen cycle illustrated above, nitrification occurs in which of the following steps? A Step 1: N2 -> Organic Nitrogen B Step 2: Organic Nitrogen -> Ammonium C Step 3: Ammonium -> Nitrite, Nitrate D Step 4: Nitrite, Nitrate -> N2

Step 3: Ammonium -> Nitrite, Nitrate

Which of the following is the best description of bioaccumulation? A The uptake of essential nutrients by plant roots B The absorption of a substance by an organism at a rate greater than the rate of elimination C The transfer of persistent pollutants like PCBs from one generation to the next D A process that occurs exclusively in marine ecosystems E A high mortality rate in organisms that have been exposed to a toxin

The absorption of a substance by an organism at a rate greater than the rate of elimination

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the graph below, which shows different phases related to the birth and death rates for a typical human population over time. The rate of population growth starts to slow down at which point? A The end of phase I B The middle of phase II C The beginning of phase III D The end of phase III E The middle of phase IV

The beginning of phase III

Directions: Each of the questions or incomplete statements below is followed by five suggested answers or completions. Select the one that is best in each case. A one-hectare pond is sampled in early September. The sample yields 1 small catfish as well as 17 benthic invertebrates that represent 10 species. If the pond is resampled a year later, which of the following would best indicate that the pond had been adversely affected by adjacent development? A An uncommon species has become more numerous. B An increase in low-tolerance species has occurred. C A decrease in high-tolerance species has occurred. D Phylogenetic diversity has increased. E The biodiversity of the pond has decreased.

The biodiversity of the pond has decreased.

A small developing country with negligible rates of immigration and emigration is going through a demographic change. Thirty years ago the crude birth rate was 44 per thousand per year and the crude death rate was 17 per thousand per year. Now the crude birth rate is 16 thousand per year and the crude death rate is 5 per thousand per year. Which of the following statements about the country now is most likely to be true? A The population is decreasing. B The growth rate of the population is increasing. C The country is at the preindustrial stage of the demographic transition. D The country is at the industrial stage of the demographic transition. E The country is at the postindustrial stage of the demographic transition.

The country is at the industrial stage of the demographic transition.

A country has a birth rate of 351,000 individuals and a death rate of 131,000 individuals. The death rate was 371,000 individuals in 1950, 281,000 individuals in 1970, and 211,000 individuals in 1990. Which of the following statements best explains why the country has a declining death rate? A The country is in stage 1 of the demographic transition, and infant mortality is high because of poor health services and high levels of poverty. B The country is in stage 2 of the demographic transition, and life expectancy has increased because of improvements in public health, sanitation, and access to food. C The country is in stage 3 of the demographic transition, and more women are entering the workforce and shifting to having children later in life. D The country is in stage 4 of the demographic transition, and the population growth rate is declining.

The country is in stage 2 of the demographic transition, and life expectancy has increased because of improvements in public health, sanitation, and access to food.

The graph below shows three different survivorship curves. A certain species of dinosaur laid large numbers of eggs, and the hatchlings had high mortality early in life. But if they survived, the young dinosaurs were able to grow at a rapid pace and disperse into the environment in order to thrive. Based on this information and the graph above, which of the following best characterizes this species of dinosaur? A The dinosaurs were r-strategists and exhibited a Type I survivorship curve. B The dinosaurs were r-strategists and exhibited a Type III survivorship curve C The dinosaurs were K-strategists and exhibited a Type II survivorship curve. D The dinosaurs were K-strategists and exhibited a Type I survivorship curve.

The dinosaurs were r-strategists and exhibited a Type III survivorship curve

When water used to cool power plants during normal plant operations is released into adjacent waterways, which of the following is most likely to occur as a result? A Biodiversity of aquatic life in the adjacent waterways would decrease because the used coolant water is radioactive. B The dissolved oxygen in the adjacent waterways would decrease because used coolant water is warm and leads to thermal pollution. C Salinity in the adjacent waterways would increase because of dissolved solids in the used coolant water. D Nutrient levels in the adjacent waterways would increase because of phosphorous in the used coolant water.

The dissolved oxygen in the adjacent waterways would decrease because used coolant water is warm and leads to thermal pollution.

A person's ecological footprint is the total amount of land required to offset a person's carbon emissions. The table below shows ecological footprint data for five different students. Each value is a measure of the number of hectares per land required. Food C-emissions Housing Goods & Services Total Student 1 1.2 3 2 1.5 7.7 Student 2 2.5 3 1.8 1.8 9.5 Student 3 2.3 2.8 2 1.7 8.8 Student 4 2.4 3 1.9 1.9 9.2 Student 5 3.1 3 3.8 3.9 15.8 Which of the following is a limitation of using only the data in the table to complete an ecological footprint analysis of the different students? A The footprint for each individual is based on simple calculations to determine approximate resource use. B The footprint uses a top-down approach to provide a complete picture of resource use for comparison between individuals. C The footprint uses global hectares, rather than hectares, to determine the approximate proportion of Earth's surface needed to support the activities of an individual. D The footprint is a static analysis and does not include all environmental impacts of an individual.

The footprint is a static analysis and does not include all environmental impacts of an individual.

Which of the following best describes how ocean acidification affects coral formation? A The increase in hydrogen ions dissolved in the ocean water erodes the skeleton of corals, making them weak and vulnerable to damage or death. B The increase in calcium carbonate ions dissolved in the ocean water leads to an increase in the formation of coral reefs and increases the number of algae species that inhabit the reef systems. C The increase in hydrogen ions dissolved in the ocean water sequesters available carbonate ions, preventing the use of calcium carbonate for coral skeleton formation. D The increase in carbonic acid dissolved in the ocean water leads to increased deposition of calcium carbonate by coral species, leading to a bleaching of coral.

The increase in hydrogen ions dissolved in the ocean water sequesters available carbonate ions, preventing the use of calcium carbonate for coral skeleton formation.

Scientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are forecasting this summer's Gulf of Mexico hypoxic zone or "dead zone"—an area of low to no oxygen that can kill fish and other marine life—to be approximately 7,829 square miles, or roughly the size of Massachusetts. The annual prediction is based on United States Geological Survey river flow and nutrient data. The 2019 forecast is close to the record size of 8,776 square miles set in 2017 and larger than the five-year average measured size of 5,770 square miles. The annually recurring Gulf of Mexico hypoxic zone is primarily caused by excess nutrient pollution from human activities, such as urbanization and agriculture, occurring throughout the Mississippi River watershed. Once the excess nutrients reach the gulf, they stimulate an overgrowth of algae, which eventually die, then sink and decompose in the water. The resulting low oxygen levels near the bottom are insufficient to support most marine life and have long-term impacts on living marine resources that are unable to leave the area. A major factor contributing to the large dead zone this year is the high amount of spring rainfall in many parts of he Mississippi River watershed, which led to record high river flows and much larger nutrient loading to the Gulf of Mexico. This past May, discharge in the Mississippi and Atchafalaya rivers was about 67 percent above the long-term average between 1980 and 2018. The latest National Climate Assessment predicts an increase in the frequency of very heavy precipitation events in the Midwest, Great Plains, and Southeast regions, which would impact nutrient input to the northern Gulf of Mexico and the size of the hypoxic zone." News release adapted from the United States Geological Survey Which of the following best identifies the author's claim? A The increased size of the hypoxic zone in the Gulf of Mexico is forecasted to benefit the fishing industry in the United States. B The increased rainfall events in the United States are decreasing the tolerance of fish and other marine species in the Gulf of Mexico because of a decreased concentration of oxygen. C Many marine species are migrating away from the Gulf of Mexico as a result of increased nutrient pollution from increased rainfall events. D The large hypoxic zone in the Gulf of Mexico is directly linked to climate change in the Mississippi River watershed.

The increased rainfall events in the United States are decreasing the tolerance of fish and other marine species in the Gulf of Mexico because of a decreased concentration of oxygen.

A massive bluegill fish kill was observed in a lake near a power plant during the winter months. It was determined that the plant was releasing large amounts of hot water into the lake. Which of the following explains what likely caused the death of so many bluegills in the lake? A The increased water temperature caused dissolved oxygen levels to increase, leading to greater metabolic activity of catfish, which outcompeted the bluegill fish for resources. B The influx of warmer water caused an unexpected increase in the metabolic rate of the bluegills, which led to increased physiological stress from limited resource availability. C Rates of organic matter decomposition increased, which lead to an increase in dissolved oxygen and increased bacteria levels. D Photosynthetic output of aquatic plants decreased because of the higher temperature, which lowered the amount of carbon dioxide available for bluegills to carry out cellular respiration.

The influx of warmer water caused an unexpected increase in the metabolic rate of the bluegills, which led to increased physiological stress from limited resource availability.

Which of the following should be included in a watershed map to best determine the non-point source of a pollutant, such as fertilizer, found in a river? A The total volume of groundwater in the aquifer B The total area and the average yearly precipitation of the watershed C The land use upstream of the river and water quality indicators in streams that run downstream into the river D The total volume of surface water of the river and the land use downstream of the river

The land use upstream of the river and water quality indicators in streams that run downstream into the river

The diagram below shows a simplified carbon cycle. Which of the following major storage reservoirs of carbon, stored in the form of carbon dioxide, is not represented in this diagram? A Algae B Soil bacteria C The Moon D The ocean

The ocean

A 163 square-kilometer (km2) small island is found 2,000km from the mainland. A second, larger, 230,000km2 island is found 1,000km from the mainland. Based on the theory of island biogeography, which of the following statements is most likely true about the small island when compared with the large island? A The rate of immigration is lower for the small island than for the large island. B The small island has niches that are more like the mainland than the large island. C The small island has more available resources than the large island. D The rate of species extinction is lower on the small island than on the large island.

The rate of immigration is lower for the small island than for the large island.

Losses of usable energy between successive trophic levels in an ecosystem are best accounted for by which of the following? A The first law of thermodynamics B The second law of thermodynamics C The law of conservation of matter D The process of ecological succession E Limiting factors in the ecosystem

The second law of thermodynamics

Long Island Sound is a body of water off the northeast coast of the United States. Over nine million people live in the small watershed area that feeds into the sound. To determine the effect of the population density on the watershed, scientists measured the oxygen content of bottom waters in the sound. The data from late summer 2013 are displayed in the map below. Based on the image, which of the following conclusions can best be drawn to describe the conditions in the Long Island Sound? A The sound has high levels of dissolved oxygen as a result of storm water runoff from urban areas. B The sound has high levels of phosphorus and nitrogen from an increase in the number of producers. C The sound has large numbers of phytoplankton blooms that are decomposing and consumed by respiring bacteria. D The sound has high numbers of respiring fish populations and very low turbidity.

The sound has large numbers of phytoplankton blooms that are decomposing and consumed by respiring bacteria.

Directions: Each of the questions or incomplete statements below is followed by five suggested answers or completions. Select the one that is best in each case. A one-hectare pond is sampled in early September. The sample yields 1 small catfish as well as 17 benthic invertebrates that represent 10 species. Which of the following can be estimated from the sample for the invertebrates in the pond? A The species richness B The pond's productivity C The uniformity of species distribution in the pond D The degree of disturbance E The stability of the ecosystem

The species richness

Which of the following is a true statement about the total fertility of a society? A The total fertility of a society is the difference between the crude birth rate and the crude death rate. B The total fertility of a society is the number of children necessary for a couple to replace themselves in the next generation. C The total fertility of a society is positively correlated with the average education of women. D The total fertility of a society is negatively correlated with the number of women of child-bearing age. E The total fertility of a society decreases as the society progresses through the demographic transition.

The total fertility of a society decreases as the society progresses through the demographic transition.

The total fertility rate in country A was 6.8 in 1980. Which of the following statements best supports the change in the total fertility rate in country A between 1980 and 2015? A The total fertility rate increased as a result of improved health care and better nutrition. B The total fertility rate remained constant even though there was improved access to clean water. C The total fertility rate decreased as a result of a delay in age of first marriage and increased contraceptive use. D The total fertility rate decreased as a result of increased infant mortality rate.

The total fertility rate decreased as a result of a delay in age of first marriage and increased contraceptive use.

As a country goes through the demographic transition, the greatest rate of population growth takes place during which phase? A The preindustrial B The pretransitional C The transitional D The industrial E The postindustrial

The transitional

The table below shows measurements of the beak size of a sample of ten ground finches on each of two islands in the Galápagos archipelago. The two islands are about ten kilometers apart, and all the birds are the same species. Given that beak size is genetically determined, which of the following hypotheses is the most likely explanation for the differences in data between the islands? Daphne Island Beak Size Santa Cruz Island Beak Size 9.55 10.05 8.70 9.74 9.62 10.27 9.22 9.81 8.79 10.46 9.61 10.24 9.02 10.02 7.85 10.30 9.01 10.43 8.26 10.52 A Egg mortality differs on the islands. B Beak size exerts selective pressure on prey size. C Birds on Daphne Island live longer than birds on Santa Cruz Island. D Large-beaked birds move to Santa Cruz Island and small-beaked birds move to Daphne Island. E The types of food found on the two islands exert selective pressure on beak size. Related Content & Skills Topic2.6 Skill

The types of food found on the two islands exert selective pressure on beak size.

Based on the theory of island biogeography, which of the following is the most likely reason that an island in the ocean that is 5 kilometers from a continent would have a higher number of species than one that is 15 kilometers from a continent? A There are more species that have the ability to travel 5 kilometers than can travel 15 kilometers. B Islands that are closer to continents always have a wider range of habitats than more distant islands do. C There are smaller populations of each species on islands that are at greater distances from continents. D Islands that are closer to continents always have more ecological niches than more distant islands do.

There are more species that have the ability to travel 5 kilometers than can travel 15 kilometers.

Which of the following characteristics is most closely associated with a country that demonstrates the age structure(/\) in the diagram shown above? A There is a low infant mortality rate. B A high percentage of the population has access to medical care. C There is a low population growth rate. D There is a high total fertility rate.

There is a high total fertility rate.

Why do introduced species often become pests? A They displace native species. B They increase biodiversity. C They do not adapt well to local habitats. D They contribute to habitat fragmentation. E They have low biotic potential.

They displace native species.

Directions: Each of the questions or incomplete statements below is followed by five suggested answers or completions. Select the one that is best in each case. The following questions refer to the next: A laboratory experiment was done to show the effects of organic waste on the dissolved oxygen (DO) content in water. Five tanks were set up, each containing fresh water and a small amount of single-celled green algae. Specified amounts of organic waste were added to the tanks. The results below show the amount of DO in each tank after a period of one week. What is the main purpose for the experiment? A To determine how much O2 the algae can produce B To show how much CO2 is consumed by decomposition C To collect data to determine how waste in water can be useful D To demonstrate that initial DO is not important E To observe the effect of organic waste on DO

To observe the effect of organic waste on DO

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the qualities of water samples. Acidity Turbidity Hardness Dissolved oxygen Salinity Caused by suspended particulates A Acidity B Turbidity C Hardness D Dissolved oxygen E Salinity

Turbidity

Which of the following solutions would help decrease flood frequencies and flood sizes that are caused by urbanization? A Using new, more permeable materials for roads and sidewalks B Filling nearby wetlands to reduce the amount of water in an area C Encouraging construction of housing developments outward into nearby suburban and rural areas D Installing new, more energy-efficient appliances in existing apartment buildings

Using new, more permeable materials for roads and sidewalks

In 1950, a country had a total fertility rate of 5.9. In 2010, the total fertility rate of the country was 2.3. Which of the following is most likely the reason for the change in total fertility rate? A Women had increased educational opportunities and had children later in life. B Families had limited access to family planning and contraceptives. C There were lower infant mortality rates as a result of increased access to healthcare. D The country shifted to a more agricultural-based economy and the need for child labor decreased.

Women had increased educational opportunities and had children later in life.

The supply of Earth's fresh water is fixed and is being depleted at a rapid rate. Which of the following best describes the effects of a limited freshwater supply on human populations? A Disease transmission will decrease as access to water decreases, leading to improved public health. B Conservation measures will increase per capita water consumption, leading to an improved global economy. C Desalinization facilities will be used to process water stored in glaciers and snow packs, leading to new sources of drinking water. D World food production will decrease, leading to increased famine.

World food production will decrease, leading to increased famine.

In a human population, the population momentum effect is most likely to occur in cases in which a large percent of people in the population are in which age-group? A Younger than eighteen years old B Between thirty and forty-four years old C Between forty-five and fifty-four years old D Between fifty-five and sixty years old E Older than sixty-five years old

Younger than eighteen years old

A large forested area is fragmented into small forest tracts separated by agricultural areas. This change will most likely lead to A an increase in the population of top carnivores B an improvement in the dispersal mechanisms of forest species C a more stable regional climate D a decrease in the amount of edge habitat E a decrease in the gene flow within species of the original forest

a decrease in the gene flow within species of the original forest

Many communities experience the tragedy of the commons. One way a local community might regulate a shared and limited resource and reduce the tragedy of the commons is to A eliminate ownership of the resources and make them available to all B reduce the cost of access to the resources C offer subsides to users of the resources in the form of tax breaks D divide the resources into parcels and assign them to individuals

divide the resources into parcels and assign them to individuals

In Mediterranean climate regions like portions of California, a wetter-than-normal winter often leads to greater severity of fires the following summer. This seeming paradox occurs because increased rain leads to A greater accumulation of chapparal biomass B higher pollination rates of annual flowers C greater recreational use of parklands D greater erosion and damage of access roads E decreased summer rainfall

greater accumulation of chapparal biomass

Although the fertility rate for women in the United States has declined in recent years to a value below replacement level, the United States population is still increasing because of A lower average age at first marriage B lower infant death rates C increased longevity D improved health care E immigration

immigration

The next questions are based on the following table of organisms in an ecological community. The X in a cell indicates that the organism is eaten by the consumer in the first column. Consumer Organisms that are being eaten Shrews Hawks Grasshoppers Snakes Spiders Plants Shrews X Hawks X X Grasshoppers X Snakes X Spiders X Based on the data in the table, if the number of snakes were to suddenly decrease, which of the following changes would most likely occur in the food web of this ecosystem? (A)increase in number of shrews;decrease in number of hawks (B)increase in number of hawks;decrease in number of shrews (C)increase in number of grasshoppers;decrease in number of plants (D)increase in number of spiders;decrease in number of plants ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- A) increase in number of shrews;decrease in number of hawks B) increase in number of hawks;decrease in number of shrews C) increase in number of grasshoppers;decrease in number of plants D) increase in number of spiders;decrease in number of plants

increase in number of shrews;decrease in number of hawks

The release of a large amount of sewage and other organic wastes into a river would likely result in a sharp A increase in the biological oxygen demand B increase in the amount of dissolved oxygen C increase in the population size of fish that require high levels of oxygen D decrease in coliform bacteria counts E decrease in the temperature of the river water

increase in the biological oxygen demand

In a river ecosystem, dissolved oxygen concentrations drop quickly downstream from a point-source input of organic matter into the river. This effect is due to A increasing populations of mayfly and stonefly larvae B increasing activity of trout and black bass C increasing bacterial activity as organic matter decays D decreasing bacterial activity as turbidity increases E decreasing water temperature as surface evaporation increases

increasing bacterial activity as organic matter decays

A country with an age distribution like that shown in the figure above (column), is most likely a country that A is experiencing rapid growth B is experiencing slow or no population growth C is experiencing a high death rate D has 40% of the population under age 15 E is a less-developed country

is experiencing slow or no population growth

The CITES treaty has been helpful in protecting endangered animals and plants by A listing all species that can be hunted, traded, and used commercially B listing those species and products whose international trade is controlled C funding projects for breeding endangered plants and animals D preventing the hunting of whales and dolphins E specifying prices for certain plant and animal products

listing those species and products whose international trade is controlled

Open oceans produce the largest share of Earth's biomass because the net primary productivity (NPP) of the oceans is A high and thus can support a high proportion of producers B high as a result of the high concentration of nutrients in the open oceans C low, but the large expanse of the oceans supports enormous numbers of producers such as phytoplankton D low, but the individual producers found there are huge in size E low, but still higher than that of other ecosystems of the world

low, but the large expanse of the oceans supports enormous numbers of producers such as phytoplankton

A state highway was constructed over wetlands. The state obtained a permit to fill the existing wetlands in accordance with the provisions of the Clean Water Act in 1972, and agreed to create another wetland. This trade-off approach to addressing an environmental issue is known as A mitigation B restoration C preservation D remediation E sustainability

mitigation

Most volcanism in the world is associated with A plate boundaries B midcontinental hot spots C faulting D aquifer depletion E desertification

plate boundaries

Members of an r-selected species characteristically A grow slowly B produce few offspring C reach sexual maturity quickly D have long life spans E are very protective of their offspring

reach sexual maturity quickly

Directions: Select the choice that best fits each statement. The following question(s) refer to the following graph. The annual fluctuation in carbon dioxide concentration can best be explained by the A seasonal use of fossil fuels B regularity of volcanic activity C deforestation in the tropics D El Niño events E seasonal photosynthetic activity of green plants

seasonal photosynthetic activity of green plants

The crude growth rate, r , of a population is calculated by A multiplying the existing population size by life expectancy B dividing the crude birth rate by 2 C dividing the doubling time by 70 D adding the crude birth rate to the crude death rate E subtracting the crude death rate from the crude birth rate

subtracting the crude death rate from the crude birth rate

Phytoplankton are most abundant in the upper few hundred feet of most bodies of water because A they can most readily hide from predators there B sunlight does not penetrate to great depths in water C as primary producers, they must be accessible to many other organisms D they are benthic organisms E they feed on zooplankton, which are found only in the top layers of water

sunlight does not penetrate to great depths in water

Small populations of animals, such as those typically found on islands, are prone to extinction because A they contain a high degree of genetic variability B they tend to have more predators C their habitats are more stable D they are more vulnerable to unpredictable events E they are usually generalist species

they are more vulnerable to unpredictable events

Overgrazing of public land by privately owned livestock is an example of the A tragedy of the commons B right of eminent domain C rule of seventy D principle of manifest destiny E swapping of debt for nature

APES Midterm

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