How does climate change affect biodiversity?
Climate change alters habitats and ecosystems, forcing species to migrate or adapt. Many species may not survive these changes, leading to a loss of biodiversity and the extinction of certain species.
What is biological magnification, and why is it harmful?
Biological magnification is the process by which harmful chemicals accumulate in organisms at higher trophic levels in a food chain. It is harmful because top predators, including humans, consume high concentrations of toxins, which can cause serious health problems.
How does air pollution contribute to global warming?
Air pollution releases greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which trap heat and cause global warming. This leads to rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and sea level rise.
What is deforestation, and how does it affect the environment?
Deforestation is the large-scale cutting down of forests. It leads to the loss of biodiversity, contributes to climate change by releasing carbon dioxide, and causes soil erosion.
How do decomposers contribute to nutrient cycling in an ecosystem?
Decomposers break down dead organisms into simpler substances, recycling nutrients like carbon and nitrogen back into the soil, which can then be absorbed by plants.
What is the role of producers in an ecosystem?
Producers, such as green plants and algae, are autotrophs that capture solar energy and convert it into chemical energy through photosynthesis. They form the base of the food chain and provide energy for all other organisms.
What are the two main components of an ecosystem?
The two main components of an ecosystem are biotic components (living organisms) and abiotic components (non-living elements such as air, water, and soil).
What is an ecosystem?
An ecosystem is a functional unit of nature where living organisms interact with each other and with their non-living environment. These interactions involve the transfer of energy and cycling of nutrients, maintaining ecological balance.
How does biological magnification affect the food chain?
Biological magnification causes harmful chemicals to accumulate at each trophic level. These chemicals become more concentrated in organisms at higher trophic levels, posing health risks to top predators, including humans.
What are trophic levels in a food chain?
Trophic levels represent the position of organisms in a food chain. Producers occupy the first level, herbivores the second, and carnivores the higher levels.
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