Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference between Gross Primary Production (GPP) and Net Primary Production (NPP) in an ecosystem?

Accepted Answer

GPP is the total amount of energy captured by autotrophs, while NPP is the energy remaining after autotrophs use some for respiration, calculated as $$	ext{NPP} = 	ext{GPP} - R_a.$$

Question 2

A lake receives excess nitrogen and phosphorus from nearby agricultural fields. Which of the following is the most likely sequence of events leading to a 'dead zone' in the lake?

Accepted Answer

Fertilizer runoff increases nutrient levels $$\rightarrow$$ algal bloom $$\rightarrow$$ algae die and decompose $$\rightarrow$$ oxygen is depleted $$\rightarrow$$ fish and other aerobic organisms die.

Question 3

Which of the following is a key difference between a carbon sink and a carbon source in an ecosystem?

Accepted Answer

A carbon sink absorbs more carbon than it releases, while a carbon source releases more carbon than it absorbs.

Question 4

In the context of biogeochemical cycles, which of the following human activities most directly increases atmospheric carbon dioxide ($$\mathrm{CO_2$}) $$levels?

Accepted Answer

Burning fossil fuels for energy production.

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why introduced species can become invasive in new environments?

Accepted Answer

They often lack natural predators or pathogens in the new environment, allowing their populations to grow rapidly.

Question 6

A wildlife corridor is constructed between two forest fragments. Which of the following is a potential risk associated with this conservation strategy?

Accepted Answer

It may facilitate the spread of diseases or invasive species between previously isolated populations.

Question 7

Which of the following is an example of biological magnification (biomagnification) in a food web?

Accepted Answer

Concentrations of PCBs increase at higher trophic levels, so top predators in the Great Lakes accumulate the highest levels.

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the 'edge effect' in fragmented habitats?

Accepted Answer

Physical conditions such as temperature, light, and wind differ at habitat edges compared to interiors, often favoring edge-adapted species.

Question 9

Which of the following is a major ecological benefit provided by the SSU bioswale project?

Accepted Answer

It filters stormwater runoff, reducing pollutants entering local waterways and providing habitat for native species.

Question 10

Which of the following best defines the concept of 'critical load' in ecosystem management?

Accepted Answer

The maximum amount of a nutrient that can be added to an ecosystem without causing harmful effects, such as eutrophication.

Question 11

Which of the following is NOT one of the three pillars of sustainable development?

Accepted Answer

Cultural diversity

Question 12

A marine protected area (MPA) is established along a coastal region. Which of the following best describes the 'spillover effect'?

Accepted Answer

Fish populations increase inside the MPA and some individuals move into adjacent, unprotected areas, benefiting local fisheries.

Question 13

Which of the following best explains the greenhouse effect and its role in climate change?

Accepted Answer

Greenhouse gases trap infrared radiation in the atmosphere, warming Earth's surface.

Question 14

Which of the following is a direct consequence of ozone depletion in the stratosphere?

Accepted Answer

Increased ultraviolet (UV) radiation reaching Earth's surface, leading to higher rates of skin cancer and ecosystem damage.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the extinction vortex?

Accepted Answer

A process in which small populations become increasingly vulnerable to extinction due to loss of genetic diversity and inbreeding.

Question 16

Which of the following is an example of an ecosystem service?

Accepted Answer

Pollination of crops by bees, which supports food production.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the main objective of restoration ecology?

Accepted Answer

To return degraded ecosystems to a state as close as possible to their original condition.

Question 18

Costa Rica's model of sustainable development is notable for which of the following outcomes?

Accepted Answer

It has increased forest cover while improving human well-being and life expectancy.

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why biodiversity is important for human societies?

Accepted Answer

Biodiversity provides ecosystem services, such as clean water, crop pollination, and sources for medicines.

Question 20

Which of the following is a key reason why transitioning to renewable energy sources can benefit biodiversity?

Accepted Answer

It reduces greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating climate change and its negative impacts on ecosystems.

Comprehensive Study Guide for Ecosystem Ecology, Restoration, Conservation, and Human Impacts

Study Guide - Practice Questions

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