Topic 2 delves into the scientific foundations of natural systems, specifically how ecosystems function. Ecology helps us understand how energy and matter interact in ESS topics.
You can access resources for each subtopic by following the links below.
Click here for a Quizlet flashcard set covering all parts of Topic 2 Ecology, from 2.1 through 2.5.
2.1 Individuals, populations, communities, and ecosystems
How can natural systems be modelled, and can these models be used to predict the effects of human disturbance? This part of the course explores the connections between living things and the physical surroundings where they live. It shares common ground with concepts in biology.
2.2 Energy and biomass in ecosystems
How can flows of energy and matter through ecosystems be modelled?
How do human actions affect the flow of energy and matter, and what is the impact on ecosystems? Here, we learn about the movement of energy through ecosystems, from solar input to biomass (chemical energy), and its distribution via food webs.
2.3 Biogeochemical cycles
How do human activities affect nutrient cycling, and what impact does this have on the sustainability of environmental systems? This topic covers the flow and storage of water and nutrients, particularly nitrogen and carbon, within Earth’s atmosphere, geosphere, biosphere, and hydrosphere.
2.4 Climate and biomes
How does climate determine the distribution of natural systems? How are changes in Earth systems affecting the distribution of biomes? In this part of ESS, we study the link between Earth’s climate and its interaction with the Sun. We also explore how climate patterns affect light and precipitation inputs, shaping the characteristics and distribution of biomes worldwide.
2.5 Zonation, succession and change in ecosystems
How do ecological systems change over time and over space? Finally, we examine methods for measuring changes in ecosystems across landscapes and over time. The strategies and tools introduced in section 2.5 are valuable for conducting individual investigations in ESS.
Pages for the current ESS syllabus (first examinations 2017) will remain active through the last exams scheduled for 2025.
Happy learning!
MrKremerScience.com 