AP Environmental Science Flashcards: Human Impacts On Biodiversity

What this deck covers

This deck focuses on Human Impacts On Biodiversity, giving you a quick way to review the definitions, rules, and examples that matter most for AP Environmental Science.

How to use these flashcards

Work through these flashcards in short sessions. Try to answer each prompt before flipping the card, then revisit any cards you miss until the explanation feels automatic.

Flashcard 1: What is the result of coral bleaching on marine ecosystems?

Answer: Loss of biodiversity in coral reef habitats. Stressed corals expel algae, often dying.

Flashcard 2: What is an invasive species?

Answer: Non-native species that cause harm to ecosystems. Outcompete native species and disrupt food webs.

Flashcard 3: Which human activity is a major cause of deforestation?

Answer: Logging for timber and land clearing for agriculture. Both remove trees and clear forested areas.

Flashcard 4: Name a key method for protecting endangered species.

Answer: Establishing protected areas and wildlife reserves. Safe zones prevent habitat loss and hunting.

Flashcard 5: What is the significance of keystone species?

Answer: They play a crucial role in ecosystem functioning. Their loss causes disproportionate ecosystem collapse.

Flashcard 6: How does land conversion for agriculture impact biodiversity?

Answer: Results in habitat destruction and species loss. Natural ecosystems replaced with farmland.

Flashcard 7: How does noise pollution affect wildlife?

Answer: It disrupts communication and breeding behaviors. Loud sounds interfere with animal activities.

Flashcard 8: Identify a major effect of urbanization on biodiversity.

Answer: Loss of habitat and increased pollution. Cities replace natural habitats with infrastructure.

Flashcard 9: Name a key method for protecting endangered species.

Answer: Establishing protected areas and wildlife reserves. Safe zones prevent habitat loss and hunting.

Flashcard 10: Identify a human activity that leads to soil erosion.

Answer: Deforestation and unsustainable agricultural practices. Both remove protective vegetation cover.

Flashcard 11: How does tourism affect biodiversity?

Answer: Can lead to habitat disturbance and pollution. Human activities can damage fragile ecosystems.

Flashcard 12: Identify a consequence of agricultural runoff.

Answer: Eutrophication leading to dead zones in water bodies. Excess nutrients cause oxygen depletion.

Flashcard 13: What is the impact of oil spills on marine life?

Answer: Oil spills harm marine organisms and habitats. Toxic substances coat organisms and destroy habitats.

Flashcard 14: Which conservation practice involves habitat restoration?

Answer: Reforestation and wetland rehabilitation. Rebuilds damaged natural ecosystems.

Flashcard 15: What is the primary source of ocean acidification?

Answer: Increased $CO_2$ absorption by the ocean. Dissolves in seawater, lowering ocean pH.

Flashcard 16: Which treaty aims to protect biodiversity globally?

Answer: The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). International agreement for conservation efforts.

Flashcard 17: How does pollution affect biodiversity?

Answer: It contaminates habitats and affects species health. Toxic substances harm organisms and habitats.

Flashcard 18: Which greenhouse gas is most associated with human activity?

Answer: Carbon dioxide ($CO_2$). Released primarily from fossil fuel combustion.

Flashcard 19: What is the impact of plastic pollution on marine life?

Answer: Ingestion and entanglement harm marine organisms. Animals eat plastic or get trapped in debris.

Flashcard 20: What is a wildlife corridor?

Answer: A passage that connects fragmented habitats. Links separated habitat areas for movement.

Flashcard 21: Which human activity is a major cause of deforestation?

Answer: Logging for timber and land clearing for agriculture. Both remove trees and clear forested areas.

Flashcard 22: How do pesticides impact biodiversity?

Answer: They can harm non-target species and reduce diversity. Chemicals kill beneficial insects and soil organisms.

Flashcard 23: Which option describes genetic diversity?

Answer: Variation in genes within a species. Genetic variety within populations of same species.

Flashcard 24: How does climate change affect biodiversity?

Answer: It alters habitats and causes species migration. Temperature changes force species to relocate.

Flashcard 25: What is biodiversity?

Answer: The variety of life in the world or a particular habitat. Encompasses all living organisms and their genetic variations.

Flashcard 26: What is the result of monoculture farming on biodiversity?

Answer: It reduces genetic and species diversity. Single crops eliminate habitat variety.

Flashcard 27: What is the impact of industrial agriculture on biodiversity?

Answer: It leads to habitat loss and pollution. Large-scale farming destroys natural ecosystems.

Flashcard 28: Which process leads to desertification?

Answer: Overgrazing and unsustainable land use practices. Degradation turns fertile land into desert.

Flashcard 29: What is the role of conservation biology?

Answer: To study and protect biodiversity. Scientific field focused on preserving species.

Flashcard 30: Identify a consequence of global warming on species distribution.

Answer: Shifts in the range of species' habitats. Temperature increases force range shifts.