Human Influences On The Environment
Overview
Humans have transformed landscapes, altered the composition of the atmosphere, and changed the chemistry of rivers and oceans - all within a few generations. While technology has raised living standards, it has also created pollution, accelerated climate change and driven species toward extinction.
In this lesson you will examine the biological consequences of air and water pollution, trace the mechanism behind the enhanced greenhouse effect, and evaluate the cascading effects of deforestation. These topics are among the most commonly tested on both Edexcel papers, and they connect directly to the carbon cycle and ecosystem concepts you have already studied.
Objectives
- Understand the biological consequences of pollution of air by sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide
- Understand that water vapour, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, methane and CFCs are greenhouse gases
- Understand how human activities contribute to greenhouse gases
- Understand how an increase in greenhouse gases results in an enhanced greenhouse effect and that this may lead to global warming and its consequences
- Understand the biological consequences of pollution of water by sewage
- Understand the biological consequences of eutrophication caused by leached minerals from fertiliser
- Understand the effects of deforestation, including leaching, soil erosion, disturbance of evapotranspiration and the carbon cycle, and the balance of atmospheric gases
Mind map
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Flashcards
Quick recall practice on the facts this topic is tested on.
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Lesson Note
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Lesson Evaluation
Congratulations on completing the lesson on Human Influences On The Environment. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.
You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
- Which gas causes acid rain when it dissolves in rainwater? A) Carbon dioxide B) Carbon monoxide C) Sulfur dioxide D) Methane Answer: C
- What is the main biological effect of carbon monoxide? A) It causes acid rain B) It binds to haemoglobin, reducing oxygen transport C) It causes global warming D) It causes eutrophication Answer: B
- Which of the following is NOT a greenhouse gas? A) Water vapour B) Carbon dioxide C) Nitrogen D) Methane Answer: C
- Eutrophication begins with: A) Sewage entering a river B) Excess fertiliser being leached into water C) Trees being cut down near a lake D) Fish releasing waste into the water Answer: B
- Which of the following is an effect of deforestation? A) Decreased atmospheric CO2 B) Increased soil fertility C) Soil erosion D) Increased biodiversity Answer: C
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Recommended Books
Practice Mock Questions
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