Q: If atmospheric $$CO_2$$ concentrations increased from 280 ppm in 1880 to 425 ppm in 2024, what is the percentage increase?

$$\frac{425-280}{280} \times 100 = 51.8\%$$

Question 1

Which environmental ethic is most closely associated with the deliberate burning of undergrowth by Native Californian tribes such as the Yokuts, Miwoks, and Ohlone?

Accepted Answer

Environmental Sustainability Ethic

Question 2

The replacement of native perennial bunch grasses by Mediterranean annuals in California is an example of which ecological process?

Accepted Answer

Invasive species introduction

Question 3

Which of the following gases is NOT considered a major greenhouse gas contributing to climate change?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen ($$O_2)$$

Question 4

According to the IPCC AR6 Synthesis Report, what is the primary cause of the observed increase in global surface temperature since 1850?

Accepted Answer

Human activities, especially greenhouse gas emissions

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'resilience' in the context of climate change?

Accepted Answer

The ability to prepare for, adapt to, and recover from adverse conditions

Question 6

A significant historical event in California's environmental history was the near-extinction of which species, now symbolized on the state flag?

Accepted Answer

California Grizzly Bear

Question 7

Which of the following is a direct consequence of hydraulic mining during the California Gold Rush?

Accepted Answer

Mercury poisoning and increased silt in rivers

Question 8

Which of the following best illustrates the difference between the 'Preservation Ethic' and the 'Conservation Ethic'?

Accepted Answer

Preservation Ethic advocates for protecting nature from use, Conservation Ethic supports wise use of resources

Question 9

If atmospheric $$CO_2$$ concentrations increased from 280 ppm in 1880 to 425 ppm in 2024, what is the percentage increase?

Accepted Answer

$$\frac{425-280}{280} 	imes 100 = 51.8\%$$

Question 10

Which of the following is a key finding of the 2019 Global Biodiversity Assessment Report?

Accepted Answer

25% of species are threatened with extinction

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the role of Indigenous Knowledge in environmental management?

Accepted Answer

It is a body of observations, practices, and beliefs developed through interaction with the environment

Question 12

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

Accepted Answer

Building sea walls to protect coastal communities

Question 13

Which of the following statements about coral bleaching is correct?

Accepted Answer

It is caused by a breakdown in symbiosis between coral and zooxanthellae due to environmental stress

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the main objective of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)?

Accepted Answer

To provide scientific information for policy development

Question 15

Which of the following is a likely consequence of sea level rise as projected for this century?

Accepted Answer

Flooding of marshes, wetlands, and beaches

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the 'Cost/Benefit Ethic' in environmental decision-making?

Accepted Answer

It evaluates environmental actions based on their economic and social trade-offs

Question 17

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

Accepted Answer

More intense droughts and storms

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why vulnerable communities are disproportionately affected by climate change?

Accepted Answer

They often have fewer resources to adapt and recover from impacts

Question 19

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

Accepted Answer

Reducing emissions of $$CO_2 by $$switching to renewable energy

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the historical impact of the Portola Expedition and Spanish settlement on California's environment?

Accepted Answer

It marked the beginning of large-scale environmental exploitation

Environmental Change and Human Impact in California: An Ecological and Evolutionary Perspective

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