Resource Use & Sustainability

Question 1

What defines a renewable resource?

Answer 1

A resource that can be replenished naturally over short periods.

Examples include solar energy, wind energy, and biomass, as they can be naturally restored on a human timescale.

Question 2

List three examples of nonrenewable resources.

Answer 2

• Coal
• Oil
• Natural Gas

These resources are considered nonrenewable because they form over millions of years and cannot be replenished on a human timescale.

Question 3

Fill in the blanks

______ ______ is a renewable resource that relies on the heat from within the Earth.

Answer 3

Geothermal energy

Geothermal energy is harnessed by tapping into underground reservoirs of steam and hot water.

Question 4

What is the main difference between renewable and nonrenewable resources?

Answer 4

Renewable resources can be replenished naturally; nonrenewable resources cannot.

The rate at which renewable resources are replenished allows for sustainable use, unlike nonrenewable resources.

Question 5

Fill in the blank:

The process of converting sunlight into electricity is known as ______ ______.

Answer 5

solar power

Solar power is harnessed using photovoltaic cells, which convert sunlight directly into electricity.

Question 6

Name a natural resource category that includes forests and wildlife.

Answer 6

Biological resources

Biological resources are vital for maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance.

Question 7

List two categories of natural resources based on their origin.

Answer 7

• Biotic
• Abiotic

Biotic resources are derived from living organisms, while abiotic resources come from non-living sources like minerals and water.

Question 8

Fill in the blank:

Fossil fuels are considered ______ resources because they take millions of years to form.

Answer 8

nonrenewable

Fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, are formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals over geological time.

Question 9

What is the primary goal of conservation biology?

Answer 9

To protect and manage biodiversity.

Conservation biology focuses on preserving species, their habitats, and ecosystems from excessive rates of extinction and erosion of biotic interactions.

Question 10

List three key strategies used in conservation efforts.

Answer 10

• Habitat protection
• Restoration ecology
• Sustainable resource management

These strategies aim to maintain ecological balance and ensure that natural resources are available for future generations.

Question 11

Fill in the blank:

The ______ is an international agreement aimed at preventing species from becoming endangered or extinct due to international trade.

Answer 11

CITES

CITES, or the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, regulates trade to ensure it does not threaten the survival of species in the wild.

Question 12

What role does technology play in resource management?

Answer 12

Improves efficiency and monitoring.

Technology aids in resource management by enhancing data collection, enabling precise monitoring, and improving the efficiency of resource use.

Question 13

List two policies that support sustainable resource use.

Answer 13

• Renewable energy incentives
• Pollution control regulations

These policies encourage the use of sustainable practices and technologies to reduce environmental impact and conserve resources.

Question 14

Fill in the blank:

______ is the practice of managing resources to meet current needs without compromising future availability.

Answer 14

Sustainability

Sustainability involves using resources in a way that maintains their supply over the long term, balancing economic, social, and environmental concerns.

Question 15

What is the significance of habitat corridors in conservation?

Answer 15

Connect isolated habitats.

Habitat corridors facilitate the movement of species between isolated habitats, promoting genetic diversity and reducing the risk of extinction.

Question 16

What is the main purpose of restoration ecology?

Answer 16

To restore degraded ecosystems.

Restoration ecology aims to return ecosystems to their original state, improving biodiversity and ecosystem function.

Question 17

Fill in the blank:

The ______ is a principle that emphasizes the fair distribution of resources among current and future generations.

Answer 17

equity

Equity ensures that all individuals have access to resources and opportunities, addressing both intergenerational and intragenerational fairness.

Question 18

List two technological advancements that aid in conservation.

Answer 18

• Remote sensing
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

These technologies provide valuable data for monitoring environmental changes and planning conservation efforts.