Biodiversity/Species
Biodiversity is best described as...
The variety of all living things on Earth.
Climate change is best described as...
A long-term increase in global temperatures and weather patterns; primarily caused by human activities.
Name two ways to conserve water.
Multiple answers accepted. Examples include: taking shorter showers, using a rainwater barrel for plants, shutting off the faucet while brushing your teeth.
Why is it better to get our food locally?
Our food doesn't have to travel as far (less CO2 emissions!).
Name two types of renewable energies.
Multiple answers acccepted. Examples include: hydroelectric, nuclear, solar, wind, biomass, etc.
A native species is...
A species local to a specific area.
TWO effects of climate change include...
Multiple answers accepted. Answers include: sea level rise, ocean temperature warming, change in weather patterns, increase in droughts, ocean acidification, etc.
Deforestation is best described as...
When a large area of trees gets cleared; clearing entire forests.
Name two ways to reduce food waste.
Multiple answers accepted. Examples include: planning food, composting, sharing with others, etc.
What would be an example of a nonrenewable energy source?
Primary answer: fossil fuels (coal, natural gas, oil).
An invasive species is...
A species that is NOT local to an area but has been introduced; it harms native species and spreads quickly.
Multiple answers accepted. Examples include: oxygen, carbon dioxide, fluorinated gases, nitrogen oxide, methane.
What sort of actions cause acid rain?
Name two things you can compost and one thing you can NOT compost.
NOT Compost: bones, plastic, meat, diary, etc.
Describe how renewable energy is connected to climate change.
It is a solution to climate change since they produce no to few greenhouse gases!
An example of an invasive species is...
Multiple answers accepted. Examples include: lionfish, pythons, common carp, purple loosestrife, zebra mussel, bittersweet.
What is the role of greenhouse gases and what do they do in the atmosphere?
Greenhouse gases trap the sun's heat and warm up the atmosphere (sometimes too much!).
Explain the difference between a renewable and a nonrenewable resource.
Name two ways that cattle are harm for the environment.
Multiple answers accepted. Possible answers: 1) Cattle take up a lot of space; 2) Cows release methane; 3) There is SUCH a high demand for cows.
Name one pro and one con of nuclear energy.
Multiple answers accepted. Pros: generates lots of energy at an affordable price, can recycle uranium; Cons: uranium technically isn't renewable, nuclear waste.
What is a biodiversity hotspot? Give an example.
An area with a lot of biodiversity. The Amazon is one key example!
What is ocean acidification and why is it bad?
When the ocean's pH changes and becomes more acidic. It causes shells to disintegrate and harms shelled creatures.
What is a common pool resource? (Hint: think fisheries!)
A resource that is shared by everyone and owned by no one! Example: oceans.
What is rotational grazing and why is it beneficial for the environment?
Rotational grazing is when cattle are rotated to different grassy areas of the field. This gives the area time to regenerate.
What is the main environmental con of a hydroelectric dam?
Doesn't allow animals to pass through! (Think: salmon)