After reading and studying this chapter you should be able to:
Define the three interrelated parts of the biosphere.
Understand the concept of a food chain and be able to trace the passage of elements through one.
Deconstruct the hydrologic cycle into its component processes.
Identify the various types of water pollution, their sources, and impacts on the environment.
Identify the sources of air pollution, explain why air pollutants are harmful, and discuss some possible solutions to air quality problems.
Understand the various ways in which human activity modifies landforms, soils, and climate.
Describe what is meant by a landform produced by excavation or dumping.
Identify the various ways in which soil can be lost or degraded.
Understand the impacts of exotic species, deforestation and use of insecticides on numbers and distribution of plants and animals.
Define and give an example of biological magnification and understand its implications for humans.
Identify sources of solid and hazardous waste and discuss the locational problems associated with current and proposed methods of their storage and disposal.
