Perspectives in Environmental Science
What is the term for a way of viewing or interpreting environmental issues?
perspectives
What is a system in environmental science?
It is a set of interrelated components working together.
What is a feedback mechanism in environmental systems?
a process that amplifies or dampens changes in a system.
What is a tipping point?
A tipping point is a critical threshold causing significant change.
What is resilience?
he ability of a system to absorb disturbances and still retain its basic structure and functions.
Name the three main types of perspectives in environmental science.
anthropocentric and ecocentric and technocentric perspectives.
what biosphere is made or modified by humans?
The Anthroposphere.
Name the two types of feedback mechanisms.
positive feedback and negative feedback.
How can understanding tipping points help in environmental management?
By predicting sudden shifts in ecosystems
Name one key factor that enhances the resilience of an ecosystem.
biodiversity
Which perspective prioritizes human needs and economic growth over ecological considerations?
anthropocentric perspective.
This type of system is characterized by a flow of energy and matter.
a closed system
What are negative feedback loops.
A negative feedback loop helps balance a system by reducing changes.
What can happen if a tipping point is crossed in a climate system?
The system may undergo irreversible changes
Name one strategy that communities can implement to increase their resilience to natural disasters
creating emergency preparedness plans
This perspective advocates for the intrinsic value of nature and ecosystems regardless of their usefulness to humans.
the ecocentric perspective.
What kind of system is influenced by external factors and has inputs and outputs?
an open system
What are positive feedback loops?
A positive feedback loop amplifies changes, leading to more effects.
Which human activity is most likely to trigger a tipping point in climate change?
Burning fossil fuels
What term refers to the speed at which a system returns to equilibrium after a disturbance?
recovery time
This perspective believes that technology is the solution to every environmental problem.
Technocentric.
list the three spheres in rocks and soils
geosphere, lithosphere,pedosphere
How does negative feedback help maintain homeostasis in ecosystems?
It counteracts changes, helping to stabilize the system.
What role do feedback loops play in reaching a tipping point?
They can amplify changes, pushing the system toward a tipping point.
What do we call the ability of a community to recover after a natural disaster, like a hurricane?
community resilience?