The Slow Extinction of Species Is Always Occurring on Earth

question 48

Multiple Choice

The slow extinction of species is always occurring on Earth. Five periods of mass extinction have also happened. Many scientists feel that humans are responsible for causing another era of mass extinction. Which of the following human factors might contribute to this mass extinction?

• A) overpopulation
• B) pollution
• C) man-made contributions to global climate change
• D) encroachment on animal habitat
• E) All of these answers may contribute to the current mass extinction.

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Definitions:

Competition

An ecological interaction where different species or individuals within the same species vie for the same resources in an ecosystem.

Environmental Degradation

The deterioration of the environment through the depletion of resources, the destruction of ecosystems, and the extinction of wildlife.

Population Growth

The increase in the number of individuals in a population, often measured as the change in population size over time.

Resource Consumption

Resource consumption refers to the use of natural resources by humans for energy, food, materials, and other necessities.