(Theory)
1. Environment
Definition:
The environment refers to all the living and non-living things around us. It includes
natural elements like air, water, and land, as well as man-made structures and
human activities. It influences our survival, development, and daily life.
Types of Environment:
Natural Environment:
This includes elements that are not made by humans, such as mountains, rivers,
forests, oceans, and wildlife. It exists naturally without human interference.
Man-made Environment:
This type consists of structures and surroundings created by humans, such as
buildings, roads, parks, and cities. It is built to support human life and activities.
Components of Environment:
Biotic Components:
These are the living parts of the environment, like plants, animals, humans, fungi,
and microorganisms.
Abiotic Components:
These are the non-living parts of the environment, such as sunlight, temperature, air,
water, and soil.
Problems in Environment:
Deforestation
Air and water pollution
Climate change
Loss of biodiversity
Soil erosion
Solutions to Environmental Problems:
Planting more trees
Using clean and renewable energy
Reducing waste and recycling
Protecting wildlife
Promoting environmental education
Management of Environment:
Environmental management means the careful use and protection of natural
resources to ensure a healthy and sustainable environment. It includes planning,
laws, conservation methods, and sustainable practices to balance human needs and
nature.
2. Ecosystem
Introduction:
An ecosystem is a community where living organisms interact with each other and
with their non-living surroundings. It works as a system where energy flows and
materials cycle through biotic and abiotic components.
Types of Ecosystem:
Aquatic Ecosystem:
These ecosystems exist in water bodies such as rivers, lakes, oceans, and ponds.
They include freshwater and marine ecosystems.
Terrestrial Ecosystem:
These ecosystems are found on land, such as forests, grasslands, deserts, and
mountains. Climate and landform affect their nature and biodiversity.
Components of Ecosystem:
Biotic Components:
These include all living beings like:
Producers (plants that make food through photosynthesis)
Consumers (animals that eat plants or other animals)
Decomposers (organisms that break down dead matter)
Abiotic Components:
These include non-living elements like:
Sunlight
Temperature
Water
Air
Soil and minerals
Energy in Ecosystem:
Energy in an ecosystem flows from the sun to producers and then to consumers and
decomposers. It moves through food chains and food webs, maintaining life
processes. Energy decreases at each level, as some is lost as heat.
3. Atmosphere
Definition:
The atmosphere is the layer of gases surrounding the Earth. It protects life by
blocking harmful rays, controlling temperature, and helping in breathing and weather
formation.
Five Layers of Atmosphere:
1. Troposphere:
This is the lowest and closest layer to the Earth’s surface. It is where all weather
activities like rain, wind, and storms take place. It contains about 75% of the
atmosphere's total mass and most of the air we breathe.
2. Stratosphere:
Located above the troposphere, this layer is stable and ideal for aircraft flying. It
contains the ozone layer, which absorbs and filters harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from
the sun, protecting living organisms on Earth.
3. Mesosphere:
This is the third layer and the coldest part of the atmosphere. It plays an important
role in burning up meteors and space debris before they reach the Earth's surface,
acting as a protective shield.
4. Thermosphere:
Found above the mesosphere, this layer contains charged particles known as the
ionosphere, which reflects radio waves. Auroras (northern and southern lights)
happen here, and temperatures rise sharply with altitude.
5. Exosphere:
The outermost layer of the atmosphere slowly fades into outer space. It has
extremely low density and contains very few air molecules. Satellites orbit in this
layer due to minimal air resistance.
4. Air Pollution
Definition:
Air pollution is the presence of harmful substances in the air which can harm human
health, animals, plants, and the environment.
Types of Air Pollution:
Indoor Air Pollution:
Caused by smoke from cooking, dust, chemicals, and poor ventilation inside homes
or buildings.
Outdoor Air Pollution:
Comes from vehicle emissions, factories, burning of fossil fuels, and construction
activities.
Major Air Pollutants: Earth is facing major air pollution problems which are
mentioned below.
1. Carbon Monoxide (CO):
A colorless, odorless gas from car exhaust and burning fuels; dangerous to breathe.
2. Sulfur Dioxide (SO2):
From burning coal; causes respiratory problems and acid rain.
3. Nitrogen Oxides (NOx):
From vehicles and factories; leads to smog and acid rain.
4. Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10):
Tiny particles from dust, smoke, and soot; can enter lungs and harm health.
5. Ozone (O3):
Harmful at ground level (unlike in the stratosphere); a major part of smog.
