Question 1

Which of the following best describes the 'good news' and 'bad news' associated with the addition of $$CO_2$$ from the combustion of fossil fuels?

Accepted Answer

The 'good news' is increased plant growth due to more $$CO_2$$ for photosynthesis; the 'bad news' is enhanced greenhouse effect leading to global warming.

Question 2

Which process in the nitrogen cycle is primarily responsible for converting atmospheric $$N_2$$ into a form usable by plants?

Accepted Answer

Nitrogen fixation

Question 3

A farmer applies excess fertilizer to a field near a river. Which process is most likely to occur, and what is a major consequence?

Accepted Answer

Eutrophication; leading to hypoxic (low oxygen) dead zones in aquatic ecosystems.

Question 4

Which of the following best explains why climate change is occurring so rapidly in recent decades?

Accepted Answer

Human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation have greatly increased greenhouse gas emissions.

Question 5

Which of the following is an example of a positive feedback effect in climate change?

Accepted Answer

Melting ice reduces Earth's albedo, causing more heat absorption and further warming.

Question 6

Which of the following best differentiates between climate and weather?

Accepted Answer

Climate is the long-term average of atmospheric conditions; weather is the short-term variation.

Question 7

A conservation biologist is working to protect an endangered species threatened by habitat loss. Which strategy would be most effective?

Accepted Answer

Establishing protected areas to prevent further habitat destruction.

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a major threat to biodiversity?

Accepted Answer

Increased pollinator populations

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the process of ocean acidification?

Accepted Answer

Increased atmospheric $$CO_2$$ dissolves in seawater, forming carbonic acid and lowering pH.

Question 10

Which of the following is an example of how climate change can affect phenology in plants?

Accepted Answer

Earlier flowering times due to warmer spring temperatures.

Question 11

Which of the following best defines an 'endangered species'?

Accepted Answer

A species at serious risk of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range.

Question 12

Which of the following is a direct effect of increased greenhouse gases in the atmosphere?

Accepted Answer

Increased average global temperatures due to enhanced greenhouse effect.

Question 13

A scientist observes that certain fish species are migrating to cooler waters as ocean temperatures rise. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

A climate change impact on species distribution.

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the process of denitrification in the nitrogen cycle?

Accepted Answer

Conversion of nitrates ($$NO_3$$^-$$) to nitrogen gas (N_2$), returning it to the atmosphere.

Question 15

Which of the following is an example of a mitigation strategy for climate change?

Accepted Answer

Switching from coal to renewable energy sources to reduce $$CO_2$$ emissions.

Question 16

Which of the following is a likely consequence of habitat fragmentation?

Accepted Answer

Reduced genetic diversity due to isolated populations.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the role of bacteria in the phosphorus cycle?

Accepted Answer

Bacteria decompose organic matter, releasing phosphate ions ($$PO_4$$^{3-}$$) into the soil.

Question 18

Which of the following is an example of an invasive species?

Accepted Answer

Zebra mussels introduced into North American lakes, outcompeting native species.

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why biodiversity is important for ecosystem resilience?

Accepted Answer

Greater biodiversity increases the variety of species, allowing ecosystems to better withstand disturbances.

Question 20

Which of the following is an example of adaptation in response to climate change?

Accepted Answer

Developing drought-resistant crops to cope with changing rainfall patterns.

Climate Change, Biogeochemical Cycles, and Biodiversity: Study Guide

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards