What are abiotic factors?
Factors that are physical rather than biological, not derived from living organisms.
Examples include light, temperature, water, and soil pH.
What becomes a limiting factor in plant growth?
Any single factor that is less than ideal.
For example, if light levels are limited, light intensity becomes a limiting factor.
What human activity can lead to uneven distribution of plants?
Trampling by humans or cattle.
What is habitat destruction?
Deforestation or clearing of land for development or agriculture.
How does acid rain affect plant growth?
It can cause soils to become too acidic, killing some plants and inhibiting the growth of others.
What types of chemicals affect plant growth?
Pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, fertilizers, and liming.
What is the effect of over harvesting on soil?
It depletes the soil of nutrients, making it difficult for plants to grow.
What are monocultures?
Growing only one type of plant in a particular field.
What pH range do most plants grow best in?
Between 4.5 and 7.5.
Why is soil aeration important for plants?
It provides oxygen for respiration and helps prevent toxins and diseases.
Aeration is also essential for microorganisms that decompose organic matter.
What is the relationship between sunlight and plant growth?
Plants grow more quickly in summer when there is more sunlight.
True or False: High temperatures can cause respiration to occur more quickly than photosynthesis.
True.
What happens to plants when temperatures fall below freezing?
Plant cells and tissues can be destroyed, potentially killing many plants.
Why is water essential for plants?
It is necessary for photosynthesis and dissolves minerals for uptake by roots.
Fill in the blank: Plants lose water from their leaves by _______.
transpiration.
What are the effects of calcium ion deficiency in plants?
Tissues become soft, and the plant is likely to wilt.
What role does magnesium play in plants?
It is part of the chlorophyll molecule necessary for photosynthesis.
What is the effect of iron deficiency on plant leaves?
Leaves become bleached, leading to a deficiency in chlorophyll.
What can potassium deficiency cause in plants?
Leaves may lose color at the tips, curl, and crinkle.
What is the outcome of nitrate ion deficiency?
Plants become short and spindly, may wilt and die.
What is the impact of phosphate deficiency on plant growth?
Plants grow more slowly, leading to dwarfed or stunted plants.
What sampling technique is used for large habitats?
Line transects.
What is a quadrat?
A square frame placed at randomly selected areas of the habitat for sampling.
What is the purpose of point frames in sampling?
To record plants touching long needles lowered into an open quadrat.
