Question 1: Define the term 'ecosystem' and explain its main components.

Answer: An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment. Its main components include plants, animals, microorganisms, and the non-living elements like air, water, and soil.

Question 2: Describe the differences between a terrestrial ecosystem and an aquatic ecosystem.

Answer: A terrestrial ecosystem exists on land, such as forests or grasslands, characterized by land-based plants and animals. An aquatic ecosystem exists in water, such as lakes, rivers, or oceans, featuring water-dwelling plants and animals.

Question 3: Explain what is meant by 'biodiversity' within an ecosystem.

Answer: Biodiversity refers to the variety and variety of different species of plants, animals, and microorganisms within an ecosystem.

Question 4: Identify three factors that can affect the health of an ecosystem.

Answer: Factors include pollution, climate change, and deforestation.

Question 5: Describe how plants adapt to survive in a desert ecosystem.

Answer: Plants in deserts often have deep root systems to access water, thick or waxy leaves to reduce water loss, and sometimes store water in their tissues.

Question 6: Explain the role of decomposers in an ecosystem.

Answer: Decomposers break down dead organic material, returning nutrients to the soil and helping to recycle matter within the ecosystem.

Question 7: Draw a simple diagram of a food chain in a woodland ecosystem, including at least three different organisms.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a sequence starting with a plant (such as a tree or shrub), a herbivore animal (such as a rabbit), and a carnivore (such as a fox). The arrows indicate energy flow from the plant to the herbivore and then to the carnivore.

Question 8: Sketch a diagram of an ecosystem showing the flow of energy from the sun to producers, consumers, and decomposers.

Answer: A correct sketch would depict the sun at the top, arrows pointing to plants (producers), then arrows from plants to animals (consumers), and finally arrows from dead plants and animals to decomposers, illustrating energy flow.

Question 9: List three human activities that can threaten ecosystems and briefly explain their impact.

Answer: Deforestation reduces habitats; pollution contaminates water and soil; urban development destroys natural areas.

Question 10: Describe one way in which climate change can affect an ecosystem.

Answer: Climate change can alter temperature and rainfall patterns, which may lead to habitat loss and affect the survival of native species.

Question 11: Explain the importance of protecting ecosystems for future generations.

Answer: Protecting ecosystems ensures the survival of biodiversity, maintains natural resources, and supports the health of the planet for future generations.