Environmental Science & Natural Resources Flashcards

What is the greenhouse effect?

Answer: The trapping of heat in Earth's atmosphere by gases such as CO2 and methane

The greenhouse effect occurs when atmospheric gases like CO2 and methane absorb and re-emit infrared radiation, warming Earth's surface.

Which soil horizon is primarily composed of decomposed organic matter?

Answer: Horizon O

Horizon O (the organic horizon) is the topmost layer of soil composed mainly of decomposed plant and animal material known as humus.

What does the term 'carrying capacity' mean in ecology?

Answer: The maximum population size an environment can sustainably support

Carrying capacity is the maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can support indefinitely given available resources.

Which of the following best describes point source pollution?

Answer: Discharge from a factory pipe directly into a river

Point source pollution originates from a single, identifiable source such as a pipe or discharge outlet, making it easier to regulate.

In New Jersey, which agency is primarily responsible for environmental regulation and natural resource management?

Answer: NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) oversees environmental regulations, natural resource protection, and pollution control in the state.

What is bioaccumulation?

Answer: The buildup of a substance in an organism's body over time

Bioaccumulation is the gradual buildup of a toxic substance, such as mercury or DDT, in an organism's tissues over its lifetime.

Which type of energy source harnesses the internal heat of the Earth?

Answer: Geothermal energy

Geothermal energy is generated by tapping the heat stored beneath Earth's surface, used for heating and electricity generation.