Introduction to Ecology and

The Biosphere

Introduction to ecology

Ecology - the study of the interactions between organisms and their environment.

Biotic and abiotic components

• Temperature
• Water
• Sunlight
• Wind
• Rocks and soil
• Periodic disburbance

Fields of ecological research

• Organismal Ecology - Fig. 50.2a
• Population Ecology - Fig. 52.00
• Community Ecology - 50.23b.jpg
• Ecosystem Ecology - Fig. 50.2b

The Biosphere

Climate - Temperature and moisture most important. Climograph - Fig. 50.10

Weather

Uneven heating of Earth's surface - Fig. 50.11

Seasons - Fig. 50.12

Atmospheric circulation Also see Fig. 50.13

Prevailing winds - Fig. 50.13

Rainshadow effect - Fig. 50.14