Ecology
Population Dynamics
Population Dynamics
Define carrying capacity and explain how it affects population growth.
Maximum population an environment can sustain.
What is mutualism? Provide an example.
Both species benefit (e.g., bees and flowers).
What are the main causes of habitat destruction?
Deforestation, urbanization, agriculture.
Describe the structure of DNA.
Double helix with complementary base pairs (A-T, C-G).
What is recombinant DNA technology?
Combining DNA from different sources (e.g., to produce insulin).
What is the difference between density-dependent and density-independent factors?
Explain the difference between predation and parasitism.
Predation kills prey; parasitism harms but usually does not kill the host.
Explain the greenhouse effect and its impact on global warming.
Traps heat in the atmosphere; excess gases contribute to global warming.
What is the process of transcription, and where does it occur?
DNA to mRNA in the nucleus.
How is gel electrophoresis used to analyze DNA?
Separates DNA fragments by size using an electric field.
Explain the concept of an ecological niche.
Role or position of an organism in its environment.
How does altruistic behavior benefit a species?
Increases survival chances of relatives, aiding the species.
How does overfishing affect aquatic ecosystems?
Disrupts food chains and reduces biodiversity.
How does translation convert mRNA into a protein?
mRNA codons are decoded by ribosomes into a chain of amino acids (protein).
Describe the process of cloning.
Produces genetically identical organisms or cells.
How does energy flow through a food chain?
Energy moves from producers to consumers; only ~10% is passed to the next level.
What is a keystone species, and why is it important?
Crucial for ecosystem stability (e.g., wolves in Yellowstone).
What is the importance of biodiversity?
Ecosystem stability and resilience.
Explain the role of tRNA in protein synthesis.
Brings amino acids to the ribosome during translation.
What is CRISPR, and how is it used in genetic engineering?
Gene-editing tool that allows precise DNA modification.
Describe the process of succession in an ecosystem.
Gradual change in an ecosystem over time (primary or secondary).
How do innate and learned behaviors differ?
Innate is genetic; learned is acquired through experience.
How can individuals reduce their ecological footprint?
Recycling, conserving water, using renewable energy.
What is a mutation, and how can it affect protein synthesis?
Can alter amino acid sequence, potentially disrupting protein function.
How can stem cells be used in medicine?
Regenerate damaged tissues or treat diseases like leukemia.