Textbook Question
Which of the following biomes is most common on Earth's land surface?
a. Chaparral
b. Desert
c. Temperate forest
d. Tundra
e. Boreal forest
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Ch. 17 - The Human Footprint
Belk, Maier6th EditionBiology: Science for LifeISBN: 9780135214084
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Table of contents
- Ch. 1 - Can Science Cure the Common Cold?12
- Ch. 2 - Science Fiction, Bad Science, and Pseudoscience12
- Ch. 3 - Is It Possible to Supplement Your Way to Better Performance and Health?10
- Ch. 4 - Body Weight and Health10
- Ch. 5 - Life in the Greenhouse10
- Ch. 6 - Cancer10
- Ch. 7 - Fertility10
- Ch. 8 - Does Testing Save Lives?10
- Ch. 9 - Biology of Wrongful Convictions10
- Ch. 10 - Genetically Modified Organisms10
- Ch. 11 - Where Did We Come From?13
- Ch. 12 - An Evolving Enemy8
- Ch. 13 - Understanding Race11
- Ch. 14 - The Greatest Species on Earth?8
- Ch. 15 - Is the Human Population Too Large?10
- Ch. 16 - Conserving Biodiversity12
- Ch. 17 - The Human Footprint10
Belk, Maier6th EditionBiology: Science for LifeISBN: 9780135214084Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 17, Problem 9
Which of the following biomes has a structure made up primarily of the mineral deposits secreted by its dominant organisms
a. Coral reefs
b. Freshwater lakes
c. Rivers
d. Estuaries
e. Oceans
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Identify the key characteristic of the biome in question: it is primarily composed of mineral deposits secreted by its dominant organisms.
Understand that coral reefs are ecosystems built by coral organisms, which secrete calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) to form their hard exoskeletons. This mineral deposit forms the structure of the reef.
Review the other options: freshwater lakes, rivers, estuaries, and oceans. These biomes do not have structures primarily made of mineral deposits secreted by their dominant organisms.
Coral reefs are unique in this regard because their physical structure is directly created by the biological activity of corals, which are marine invertebrates.
Conclude that the correct answer is the biome where the structure is formed by calcium carbonate secretions, which is coral reefs (option a).
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Biomes
Biomes are large ecological areas on the Earth's surface, characterized by specific climate conditions, flora, and fauna. They are classified based on factors such as temperature, precipitation, and the types of organisms that inhabit them. Understanding biomes is essential for recognizing the diverse ecosystems and their interactions within the environment.
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Introduction to Aquatic Biomes
Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are underwater structures made primarily of calcium carbonate, which is secreted by coral polyps, the dominant organisms in these ecosystems. They are known for their biodiversity and play a crucial role in marine life, providing habitat and food for various species. Coral reefs are sensitive to environmental changes, making them important indicators of ocean health.
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Mineral Deposits
Mineral deposits refer to the accumulation of minerals that can form through biological processes, such as the secretion of calcium carbonate by organisms like corals. These deposits contribute to the structural integrity of ecosystems like coral reefs and influence the physical and chemical properties of the surrounding water. Understanding mineral deposits is vital for studying the formation and sustainability of various biomes.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question
Tundra is found
a. Where average temperatures are low and growing seasons are short
b. Near the poles
c. At high altitudes
d. A and B are correct
e. A, B, and C are correct
Textbook Question
Which statement best describes the desert biome?
a. It is found wherever temperatures are high
b. It contains a larger amount of biomass per unit area than any other biome
c. Its dominant vegetation is adapted to conserve water
d. Most are located at the equator; e. It is not suitable for human habitation
Textbook Question
Which of the following actions can reduce humanity's ecological footprint?
a. Reducing our dependence on fossil fuels
b. Reducing meat consumption
c. Living in higher density settlements
d. Better management of human wastewater
e. All of the above