Science and the Environment Human Activity and Earth Systems

Eutrophication The process by which a body of water is enriched in nutrients; this stimulates the growth of plant life; when plant life decays, it depletes dissolved oxygen in the water. Click here to reveal the definition!

Fossil Fuel Energy sources formed from the remains of once-living organisms; includes coal, oil, and natural gas. Click here to reveal the definition!

Genetic Research Any scientific or technological investigation into the function of the genes in determining characteristics. Click here to reveal the definition!

Genetically Modified (GM) Food A food in which a desirable trait has been inserted on the genetic level, rather than by selective breeding. Click here to reveal the definition!

Legume A plant with root nodules that certain nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Click here to reveal the definition!

Nonrenewable Resource A thing used by society such as coal or oil that takes thousands or millions of years to replenish itself. Click here to reveal the definition!

Nonsustainable Agriculture Farming practices that deplete the resources needed for farming and negatively affect the enrvironment. Click here to reveal the definition!

Renewable Resource A resource that can be replenished in a short span of time. Click here to reveal the definition!

Resource A thing used by society to meet a want or a need. Click here to reveal the definition!

Sustainable Agriculture Farming practices that meet society’s food needs and also preserve resources and the environment over the long term. Click here to reveal the definition!