A Researcher Has Been Studying Lichens in His Hometown

question 122

Multiple Choice

A researcher has been studying lichens in his hometown. Since he began his study, he has noticed several lichens dying in the vicinity of a new factory. What is MOST likely causing the decrease in lichen populations?

• A)the diversion of water sources to the factory (i.e., lichens are drying out)
• B)an increase in air temperature, which is the result of CO₂ emissions from the factory
• C)the blocking of sun by the factory (i.e., the lichens aren't getting enough sunlight)
• D)an increase in industrial pollutants in the area

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Definitions:

Operant Conditioning

A method of education where the potency of an act is shaped by incentives or sanctions.

Classical Conditioning

Through a repetitive pairing process, a learning method occurs where a response initially triggered by the second of two stimuli becomes triggered by only the first stimulus.

Social Learning Theory

A theory that posits individuals learn behaviors, skills, attitudes, and beliefs through observing and imitating the actions of others within social contexts.

Biofeedback Theory

A technique that teaches individuals to control bodily processes that are normally involuntary, like heart rate, using monitoring devices.