Introduction
The natural world shapes our lives in countless ways, from the climate we experience to the landscapes we inhabit and the wildlife that surrounds us.
Vocabulary
Climate
| Word | Definition |
|---|
| Climate | The long-term pattern of weather conditions in a particular area. |
| Atmosphere | The layer of gases surrounding the Earth. |
| Greenhouse Gas | A gas that traps heat in the atmosphere, contributing to warming. |
| Emissions | Pollutants released into the air, often from human activities. |
| Global Warming | The gradual increase in Earth's average surface temperature. |
| Climate Change | Long-term changes in temperature, precipitation, and weather patterns. |
| Carbon Footprint | The total amount of greenhouse gases produced by an individual, organization, or activity. |
| Renewable Energy | Energy from sources that are naturally replenished, such as solar, wind, and hydro. |
Geography
| Word | Definition |
|---|
| Continent | One of the Earth's seven large landmasses. |
| Ecosystem | A community of living organisms interacting with their environment. |
| Biome | A large geographic area with distinct climate, plants, and animals. |
| Habitat | The natural environment where a plant or animal lives. |
| Terrain | The physical features of a piece of land. |
| Watershed | An area of land that drains all the streams and rainfall into a common outlet. |
| Desert | A dry, barren landscape with little precipitation. |
| Rainforest | A dense, tropical forest with high rainfall and biodiversity. |
Wildlife
| Word | Definition |
|---|
| Biodiversity | The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem. |
| Conservation | The protection and preservation of natural resources and wildlife. |
| Endangered Species | Animals or plants at risk of extinction. |
| Invasive Species | Non-native organisms that spread rapidly and harm local ecosystems. |
| Ecosystem Balance | The natural equilibrium between living organisms and their environment. |
| Predator | An animal that hunts and eats other animals. |
| Prey | An animal that is hunted and eaten by predators. |
| Poaching | Illegal hunting or capturing of wild animals. |
Key Concepts
- Climate affects every aspect of our environment, influencing weather patterns, ecosystems, and human activities.
- Geography defines the physical features of the Earth, shaping ecosystems and human civilization.
- Wildlife plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, and preserving biodiversity is essential for a healthy planet.
Conclusion
Understanding the vocabulary of nature and the environment helps us grasp the complex interactions between the Earth’s climate, geography, and the living organisms that inhabit it.
