Question

1. describe how succession can help restore the equilibrium of an ecosystem. k/u
2. why is succession slower on sand or bare rock than on previously vegetated soil exposed by a fire? k/u
3. the krakatoa eruption destroyed life and left behind volcanic ash. a large chemical spill can also destroy life. how would succession be very different following these two events? a
4. why is it reasonable to describe a large ecosystem like a biome as being in equilibrium, but not a very small ecosystem like a rotting log? t/i

Explanation:

1. Succession restores ecosystem equilibrium by gradually replacing pioneer species with climax - community species. As succession progresses, biodiversity increases, and ecosystem functions like nutrient cycling and energy flow are re - established.
2. Succession is slower on sand or bare rock because these substrates lack soil, organic matter, and established root systems. In previously vegetated soil exposed by fire, there are still seeds, roots, and soil organisms that can quickly initiate new growth.
3. After the Krakatoa eruption, primary succession would occur as there is no pre - existing soil. Pioneer species like lichens and mosses would colonize first to break down rock and form soil. After a chemical spill, secondary succession would occur if the soil is still present. The remaining seeds and organisms in the soil would start the recovery, but the chemicals may affect the types of species that can grow.
4. A large ecosystem like a biome is more likely to be in equilibrium because it has greater species diversity, larger area, and more complex interactions. It can better withstand disturbances through processes like compensatory growth and species substitution. A small ecosystem like a rotting log has fewer species and less resilience, so it is more easily disrupted and less likely to maintain a stable equilibrium.

Answer:

1. Succession gradually replaces species and re - establishes ecosystem functions to restore equilibrium.
2. Sand/rock lack soil and pre - existing growth elements; fire - exposed soil has them.
3. Krakatoa: primary succession starting from rock; chemical spill: secondary succession with soil but chemical impacts.
4. Biomes have more diversity and resilience for equilibrium; small ecosystems like rotting logs do not.