B7__Ecology

Definition

An individual is part of a species that lives in its habitat within a population. Many different populations interact in the same habitat creating a community. The populations are often dependant on each other. An Ecosystem is the interaction of a community with abiotic parts of the environment.


Abiotic Factors

Abiotic factors are non-living factors that can affect a community. They include

  • Light intensity.
  • Temperature.
  • Moisture levels.
  • Soil pH and mineral content.
  • Wind intensity and direction.
  • and levels.

Biotic Factors

  • Food availability.
  • New predators.
  • New pathogens.
  • Competition.

Adaptations

Organisms can have adaptations that allow them to survive/compete better in their environment such as:

  • Structural - eg sharp teeth or camouflage.
  • Behavioural.
  • Functional - involved in processes such as reproduction and metabolism.

The Carbon Cycle

  • is Removed from air via photo synthesis. The plants us carbon to make carbohydrates, proteins and fats. They are eaten and the carbon moves up the food chain.
  • is Returned to air when plants and animals respire. Decomposers respire while they return mineral ions to soil.
  • is Returned to air when wood and fossil fuels are burnt (combustion) as they contain carbon.

The Water Cycle

  • The suns energy causes water to evaporate forming water vapour.
  • Water vapour is also formed as a result of Transpiration in plants.
  • Water vapour rises cools and condenses to form clouds.
  • Water is retuned to land via precipitation which runs into lakes to provide water for animals.
  • Water returns to sea and restarts cycle.