Question 1: Biome: A large geographical area characterized by specific climate conditions and dominant vegetation types. Example: The Great Plains.

Answer: See full answer key

Question 2: Ecosystem: A community of living organisms interacting with their non-living environment within a defined area.

Answer: See full answer key

Question 3: Biodiversity: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.

Answer: See full answer key

Question 4: Climate Zone: A region characterized by specific weather patterns, such as temperate, arid, or tropical.

Answer: See full answer key

Question 5: Human Impact: The effect of human activities on ecosystems, such as deforestation or urbanization.

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Question 1: Which biome covers the largest area in the United States and is characterized by grasslands and few trees?

Answer: Great Plains

Question 2: Name the desert biome found predominantly in the southwestern United States.

Answer: Sonoran Desert

Question 3: What is the primary type of vegetation in the temperate rainforest of the Pacific Northwest?

Answer: Coniferous trees

Question 4: Identify one major human activity that threatens the biodiversity of US grassland biomes.

Answer: Agricultural expansion

Question 5: Explain the climatic factors that differentiate the desert biome from the temperate forest biome in the US.

Answer: Desert biomes have low precipitation and high temperatures, while temperate forests experience moderate rainfall and cooler temperatures.

Question 1: Based on the case study, identify two major environmental challenges facing the Mojave Desert ecosystem.

Answer: Water scarcity due to overuse and habitat fragmentation from urban development.

Question 2: Describe how increased tourism impacts the biodiversity of the Sierra Nevada forests adjacent to the Yosemite National Park.

Answer: Increased foot traffic leads to soil erosion, disturbance of wildlife, and pollution.

Question 3: Analyze the effects of climate change on the Californian chaparral biome described in the case study.

Answer: Climate change causes increased droughts and wildfires, threatening plant and animal species adapted to dry conditions.

Question 4: Evaluate the effectiveness of current conservation strategies in protecting the biodiversity of the US Southwest deserts.

Answer: Conservation efforts like protected areas and water management policies are partially effective but face challenges from ongoing development and climate impacts. A balanced approach combining strict protections and sustainable practices is necessary for long-term success.

Question 1: Explain why the coastal temperate rainforests of Oregon and Washington have high biodiversity compared to other US biomes.

Answer: The high rainfall and mild temperatures create ideal conditions for diverse plant and animal species, supporting complex ecosystems.

Question 2: Analyse the causes of desertification in the southwestern US, considering climate and human activities.

Answer: Reduced rainfall due to climate change coupled with overgrazing, urban expansion, and water extraction intensify soil erosion and loss of vegetation, leading to desertification.

Question 3: Explain the role of topography and climate in determining the distribution of the Appalachian temperate forests.

Answer: The mountain range creates varied microclimates and soil types, supporting diverse forest types from deciduous to coniferous, with higher elevations experiencing cooler, wetter conditions.

Question 1: To what extent are current conservation strategies effective in protecting the biodiversity of US grassland and desert biomes? Consider ecological, social, and economic factors in your answer.

Answer: Current conservation strategies such as protected areas and regulations on land use have helped preserve some habitats, but ongoing threats like agricultural expansion, urbanization, and climate change challenge their effectiveness. A holistic approach that includes sustainable resource management, community involvement, and policy reforms is essential for long-term protection. While successes are evident in certain national parks, many ecosystems remain vulnerable due to insufficient enforcement and competing economic interests.