Module 1 Intro
1. Module 1 Intro
1.30. Page 2
Module 1—Energy Flow and the Cycling of Matter
Explore
Read
biodiversity: a variety in the number and kind of species in a given area
biomagnification: the buildup of harmful chemicals in higher trophic levels (top predators)
Begin this lesson by reading “Biomagnification: A Fish Story” on page 28 of your textbook. You don’t need to attempt the questions yet.
To further your understanding, watch the biomagnification and biodiversity video.
Self-Check
SC 1. How do you think biomagnification could have a destabilizing effect on an aquatic ecosystem?
SC 2. What role does the hydrologic cycle play?
SC 3. How can the effects of biomagnification be reduced?
Self-Check Answers
SC 1. By reaching high levels of concentration at the top predator level, top predators can be affected by dying off or by becoming sick. If the predators die off, then there would be an increase in lower trophic level organisms. This would alter the transfer of energy.
More organisms would be alive at one point than is usual for the ecosystem, which would put a strain on the amount of oxygen in the water. A lake could begin to die. Also, as it is decomposed, the decaying fish would re-release the harmful chemical right back into the ecosystem. The cycle would be never ending until the chemical broke down or all of the organisms died.
SC 2. The hydrologic cycle transports naturally occurring and artificial chemicals into water systems through runoff and precipitation.
SC 3. The effects of biomagnification can be reduced by properly disposing wastes and by reducing the need for these harmful chemicals in industries.
Try This
Assignment
Please go to your Module 1: Lesson 5 Assignment to answer the following Try This questions.
TR 1. Complete questions 1 to 5 on page 28 of your textbook.
TR 2. How does the cycling of a harmful element compare to a biogeochemical cycle?
Reflect and Connect
Assignment
This activity is part of your Module 1: Lesson 5 Assignment.
Why should you learn about the connections between biodiversity, energy flow, biomagnification, and the cycling of matter? You can record your response using graphics, text, or multimedia. Make sure you support your reasons with examples. Record your answer in your assignment document. Be sure to save this information to your course folder.
Reflect on the Big Picture
Assignment
This activity is a part of your Module 1: Lesson 5 Assignment.
What can biodiversity and biomagnification tell you about the biosphere’s state of equilibrium? Record your answer in your course folder.
Module 1: Lesson 5 Assignment
Remember to submit the Assignment answers to your teacher as part of your Module 1: Lesson 5 Assignment.