Module 2 Intro

Module 2—Biosphere Equilibrium and the Impact of Humans

In This Module

Lesson 1—Ecosystem Productivity: A Balance Between Energy and Matter

This lesson looks at how the balance of energy and matter can be observed in the biosphere. Biotic and abiotic processes help to maintain the balance of matter and energy exchange in the biosphere. Productivity is influenced by environmental factors such as sunlight and nutrient availability. As you move on from this module, you will continue to look at how human influence can affect biosphere equilibrium.

• How are energy, matter, and ecosystem productivity interrelated?

Lesson 2—Gas Exchange Equilibrium

This lesson will describe the gas exchange equilibrium that exists in the biosphere. As always, the balance can be affected by human activity. Your job is to make sure you can answer the following question and apply what you know when you factor in the consequences of technology:

• How does the relationship between gas exchange in photosynthesis and cellular respiration influence the composition of the atmosphere?

Lesson 3—The Ecological Footprint of Humans

This lesson will focus on mankind’s ecological footprint. You will learn about how humans can interfere either intentionally or unintentionally with the cycling of matter. Studying changes to Earth’s atmosphere over recent history will provide an example of how human activity presently affects atmospheric composition. You will then look at the relationship between biogeochemical cycles, atmospheric composition, and the climate. You will explore the following question:

• How do human activities influence the biosphere?

Module Assessment

You will be graded according to the work you complete for the lesson assignments and the module project. The module project is the final assignment for Module 2.