AS
Module 1 Core Concepts
in Physical Geography
10.3
Energy and Life
Systems,
flows and cycles
- The
distinction between ecosystems and biomes.
- The
biotic and abiotic elements of an ecosystem.
- A
study of a small-scale ecosystem.
- Energy
flows, trophic levels and food chains.
- Tropical Rainforest:
an understanding of its unique characteristics
The
Time Factor
- The concepts
of succession and climatic climax.
- Arresting factors
leading to secondary succession and plagioclimax.
- The causes of
tropical rainforest deforestation: physical, economic, social and political
factors.
- A study of the
impact of deforestation in tropical rain forests.
- The impact to
include a consideration of physical, economic, social and cultural factors
in relation to both new settlers and indigenous peoples.
Soils
and the Impact of Human Activity
- The origins and
role of water, organic and inorganic matter.
- An analysis of
the major characteristics (texture, structure, acidity, soil moisture, and
process of horizon development) of two zonal soils: podsols and brown earths
(G).
- Azonal, intrazonal
soils and the role of topography ? soil catena.
WEB LINKS
Ecosystems and Biomes-
a general introduction - http://library.thinkquest.org/11353/ecosystems.htm
Biotic and Abiotic components of an ecosystem - http://www.globalchange.umich.edu/globalchange1/current/lectures/kling/ecosystem/ecosystem.html
The Hedgerow Ecosystem - simple - http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/geography/ecosystems/7hedgerowrev2.shtml
Broadleaf Woodland Ecosystem - by BTCV, very detailed
and comprehensive - http://handbooks.btcv.org.uk/handbooks/content/chapter/683
Ecosystem Energy Flow - diagram -
http://www.simulistics.com/examples/energy/energy.htm