$$6\ \mathrm{CO}_2 + 6\ \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} + \text{light energy} \rightarrow \mathrm{C}_6\mathrm{H}_{12}\mathrm{O}_6 + 6\ \mathrm{O}_2$$

Question 1

Which of the following best explains why there are so many more plants than animals in most ecosystems, as illustrated by the energy pyramid?

Accepted Answer

Energy is lost as heat at each trophic level, so less energy is available to support higher trophic levels.

Question 2

Based on the feed conversion graph, why is beef considered a 'luxury' food in terms of energy efficiency?

Accepted Answer

Cows require much more feed to produce the same amount of edible meat compared to other animals.

Question 3

Which equation correctly represents the process of photosynthesis?

Accepted Answer

$$6\ \mathrm{CO}_2 + 6\ \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} + 	ext{light energy} ightarrow \mathrm{C}_6\mathrm{H}_{12}\mathrm{O}_6 + 6\ \mathrm{O}_2$$

Question 4

During cellular respiration, what is the main purpose of breaking down glucose?

Accepted Answer

To generate ATP, which powers cellular activities.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the role of the mitochondria in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

It is the site of cellular respiration, producing ATP from glucose.

Question 6

In the process of generating electricity from coal, which step directly produces the electrical current?

Accepted Answer

The generator, which is turned by the turbine.

Question 7

Which of the following statements about the greenhouse effect is correct?

Accepted Answer

It is a natural process that warms the Earth's surface, but excess greenhouse gases from human activities intensify it.

Question 8

What trend is shown in the graph of global monthly mean CO2 from 1980 to 2020?

Accepted Answer

CO2 levels have steadily increased.

Question 9

According to the U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by economic sector, which sector is the largest contributor to CO2 emissions?

Accepted Answer

Transportation

Question 10

Which mode of transportation is responsible for the majority of transportation-related CO2 emissions in the U.S.?

Accepted Answer

Personal vehicles

Question 11

What is the main source of greenhouse gas emissions from the U.S. electric power industry?

Accepted Answer

Fossil fuel combustion

Question 12

Which country has seen the largest increase in carbon emissions since 1990, according to the global emissions graph?

Accepted Answer

China

Question 13

What does the EnergyGuide label help consumers do?

Accepted Answer

Compare the energy efficiency and estimated yearly energy cost of appliances.

Question 14

Which of the following actions would most effectively reduce your ecological footprint for $10 or less?

Accepted Answer

Switching to energy-efficient LED light bulbs.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the difference between exponential and logistic population growth?

Accepted Answer

Exponential growth continues indefinitely, while logistic growth levels off at carrying capacity.

Question 16

Which of the following is a density-dependent factor that can limit population growth?

Accepted Answer

Competition for food

Question 17

What is the main reason toxins accumulate in higher concentrations at higher trophic levels (bioaccumulation)?

Accepted Answer

Toxins are stored in the tissues of organisms and become more concentrated as predators eat many prey.

Question 18

Which of the following is a renewable resource?

Accepted Answer

Wind energy

Question 19

If the total fertility rate (TFR) in a country drops below 2.1, what is the most likely long-term outcome for the population?

Accepted Answer

The population will decrease over time.

Ecology and Human Impacts on the Biosphere: Study Guide

Study Guide - Practice Questions