Ecology

    AQA
    GCSE

    Ecology explores the complex interactions between organisms and their physical environment, focusing on the interdependence of living things within ecosystems. It encompasses the flow of energy through trophic levels, the cycling of essential nutrients like carbon and nitrogen, and the biotic and abiotic factors affecting population dynamics. The topic also critically examines human impacts on biodiversity, pollution, and global warming, alongside the importance of sustainable conservation strategies.

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    Objectives
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    Exam Tips
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    Key Terms
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    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • Communities: abiotic and biotic factors; adaptations.
    • Levels of organisation: food chains and cycles of materials.
    • Decomposition (biology only).
    • Impact of environmental change (biology only) (HT only).
    • Waste management, land use, and global warming.
    • Maintaining biodiversity.
    • Trophic levels and pyramids of biomass.
    • Transfer of biomass and efficiency calculations.
    • Factors affecting food security and farming techniques.
    • Sustainable fisheries and role of biotechnology.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

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