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Environmental Changes

Definition

Environmental changes refer to alterations or disturbances that occur within ecosystems or natural environments. These changes can be caused by both natural processes (such as wildfires or volcanic eruptions) and human activities (such as deforestation or pollution).

Analogy

Imagine an ecosystem as a delicate balance beam. Any environmental change acts like someone stepping on one side of the beam, causing it to tilt and disrupts its equilibrium.

Related terms

Biodiversity Loss: Biodiversity loss refers to a decline in the variety of species present within an ecosystem. It can result from habitat destruction, pollution, invasive species, or other factors.

Deforestation: Deforestation is the clearing or removal of forests on a large scale. This process often leads to habitat destruction, loss of biodiversity, increased carbon dioxide levels, and soil erosion.

Pollution: Pollution refers to the introduction of harmful substances or contaminants into the environment, such as air pollution (from vehicle emissions or industrial processes), water pollution (from chemical runoff or sewage), and soil pollution (from improper waste disposal or agricultural practices).

"Environmental Changes" appears in:

Practice Questions (1)

  • What is the relationship between genetic diversity and environmental changes?


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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.