Environmental Science 2024-04-15

Key Terms
Animals

Animals are multicellular organisms that play crucial roles in ecosystems through interactions
such as predation, pollination, and decomposition.

Animals can be classified into different groups based on their characteristics, including
mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
Migration is a common behavior in animals as they move from one place to another for
feeding, breeding, or avoiding harsh conditions.
Many animals have adaptations that help them survive in their environments, such as
camouflage, sharp claws, or strong beaks.
Biodiversity is enhanced by the presence of a variety of animal species that contribute to the
overall health and functioning of ecosystems.

Atmospheric Science

Atmospheric Science focuses on the study of Earth's atmosphere, including its dynamics,
composition, and interactions with other systems.

Key areas include weather forecasting, climate modeling, air quality assessment, and
understanding atmospheric processes.
It examines phenomena such as air pressure, temperature variations, cloud formation, and
the movement of weather systems.
Research in this field helps in predicting severe weather events, assessing the impact of air
pollution, and guiding climate change policies.
Tools used in atmospheric science include satellites, radars, weather balloons, and computer
models to monitor and study atmospheric conditions.

Biology

Biology is the study of living organisms and their interactions within ecosystems, including their
structure, function, growth, evolution, distribution, and taxonomy.

Biology includes various subfields like genetics, anatomy, physiology, ecology, and
microbiology.
It examines how organisms adapt to their environments through processes like natural
selection and evolution.
Biology encompasses the classification and identification of organisms based on shared
characteristics and evolutionary relationships.
Understanding biological concepts is crucial for comprehending ecosystems and the
 interconnectedness of living organisms.

Earth

Earth is the third planet from the Sun, rich in diverse ecosystems, supporting life with its
atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere.

Earth is approximately 4.5 billion years old and is the only known planet to harbor life.
Its atmosphere consists mainly of nitrogen and oxygen, providing essential gases for
respiration and climate regulation.
The hydrosphere includes all the water on Earth, encompassing oceans, lakes, rivers, and
groundwater.
The lithosphere is the solid outer layer of the Earth, composed of rocks, minerals, and
tectonic plates.

Ecology

Ecology is the study of the relationships between organisms and their environment, including
interactions between species and the physical and chemical factors that shape ecosystems.

Ecology helps us understand how organisms interact with each other and their environment.
Ecological studies provide insights into population dynamics and the distribution of species.
Ecologists analyze the impacts of human activities on ecosystems and develop strategies for
conservation.
The field of ecology is interdisciplinary, combining elements of biology, chemistry, physics,
and mathematics.

Food

Food production and consumption impact ecosystems, biodiversity, water usage, and soil quality
in various ways, highlighting the interconnectedness of nature and food systems.

Intensive agriculture can lead to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity.

Food transportation contributes to carbon emissions and air pollution.
Overfishing disrupts marine ecosystems and threatens fish populations.
Industrial farming practices can deplete soil nutrients and contribute to soil erosion.

Health

Health is the overall well-being of individuals and communities that encompasses physical,
mental, and social aspects, influenced by various factors in our surroundings.

Exposure to pollutants can increase the risk of respiratory diseases and other health issues.
Access to clean water and sanitation facilities is crucial for preventing waterborne diseases.
 Proper waste management practices are essential to prevent the spread of diseases and
contamination of soil and water.
Vector-borne diseases, like malaria and Zika virus, can be linked to environmental factors
such as temperature and rainfall.

Human Anatomy

Human Anatomy is the study of the structure and function of the human body, including organs,
tissues, and systems.

Understanding human anatomy helps in diagnosing and treating medical conditions.

The skeletal system provides structure and support for the body.
The circulatory system transports nutrients and oxygen throughout the body.
The nervous system controls bodily functions and sends signals to and from the brain.

Pollution

Pollution refers to the introduction of harmful substances or contaminants into the environment,
leading to adverse effects on ecosystems and human health.

Different types of pollution include air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, and noise
pollution.
Pollution sources can be natural, such as volcanic eruptions, or human-induced, like industrial
activities and transportation emissions.
Pollution can have significant impacts on biodiversity, leading to species extinction and
habitat destruction.
Efforts to control pollution include implementing environmental regulations, adopting clean
energy sources, and promoting sustainable practices.

Space

Space refers to the vast and seemingly infinite expanse beyond Earth's atmosphere, including
planets, stars, galaxies, and other celestial bodies.

Space exploration provides opportunities for scientific discoveries and technological

advancements.
The vacuum of space lacks air and pressure, making it inhospitable to human life without
protective gear.
Space is governed by the principles of physics and astronomy, offering insights into the
fundamental forces shaping the universe.
The study of space encompasses fields such as astrophysics, cosmology, and planetary
science.