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12/9/2025
Biology
Human Impact on the Environment
1 / 4
Earth's Atmosphere and the Greenhouse Effect
Our atmosphere is a thin layer of gases (78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, 1% other gases) that protects Earth and makes life possible. When solar radiation reaches Earth, some is reflected back to space while the rest is absorbed by the surface and atmosphere.
The greenhouse effect is a natural process where certain gases trap heat and maintain Earth's temperature. When the Earth's surface gives off infrared radiation, greenhouse gases like water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide absorb and redirect this energy back to the surface instead of letting it escape to space.
Global warming occurs when the greenhouse effect intensifies due to increased greenhouse gas concentrations. While some temperature fluctuations are natural, human activities significantly contribute to the problem. We release carbon dioxide through burning fossil fuels and deforestation, while methane comes from livestock, rice cultivation, and landfills.
💡 Think of the greenhouse effect like a blanket around Earth - we need it to stay warm, but adding too many layers (extra greenhouse gases) makes the planet overheat!
Consequences of Global Warming
When greenhouse gases increase in our atmosphere, they trap more heat, causing global temperatures to rise. This warming triggers widespread climate change - shifts in long-term weather patterns that affect the entire planet.
One of the most visible effects is melting ice. Polar regions and glaciers are losing massive amounts of ice, contributing to rising sea levels. Oceans are also becoming warmer and more acidic, which damages marine ecosystems and alters ocean currents that regulate regional climates.
These changes dramatically impact ecosystems worldwide. Growing seasons shift, animal migration patterns change, and many species face extinction when they can't adapt quickly enough. Humans aren't immune either - we face increased heat-related deaths, changing disease patterns, water supply disruptions, and property damage from extreme weather.
Natural resources fall into two categories: renewable resources that can be replenished (like forests or solar energy) and nonrenewable resources that cannot be replaced once used up (like fossil fuels or minerals).
⚠️ Even small temperature increases can have huge impacts! A global increase of just 2°C (3.6°F) can lead to significant ecosystem changes and extreme weather events.
Human Resource Use and Environmental Impact
As our global population grows, so does our demand for natural resources. We rely heavily on fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) for 90% of the world's energy needs. We're also consuming more freshwater, despite only 1% being readily available for human use.
Our expanding population requires more land for agriculture, mining, and urban development. We harvest more trees for wood products and catch more fish to meet growing demand. This consumption pattern puts enormous pressure on natural systems.
Invasive species disrupt ecosystems when they're introduced to new areas and outcompete native species. They can cause environmental damage, economic losses, and even harm human health. Similarly, pollution introduces contaminants into natural environments. Whether it's landfills leaking chemicals, air pollution creating smog, or water pollution from oil spills, these contaminants degrade environmental quality.
Moving toward sustainability means managing our resource consumption to prevent depletion and environmental destruction. This includes developing alternative energy sources to replace fossil fuels, reducing water usage, and implementing responsible practices in agriculture, mining, and development.
🌱 You can practice sustainability in your daily life! Simple actions like reducing water use, recycling, and conserving energy make a real difference when millions of people participate.
Sustainable Solutions
Creating a sustainable future requires reimagining how we use resources. Instead of fossil fuels, we can transition to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power that produce fewer greenhouse gases.
Water conservation is crucial as freshwater becomes increasingly scarce. Simple changes like fixing leaks, using efficient appliances, and smarter agricultural irrigation can dramatically reduce consumption.
Land resources need protection through improved agricultural practices, responsible mining, and thoughtful urban development that minimizes environmental impact. For wildlife resources, sustainable logging, fishing, and hunting practices help ensure these resources remain available for future generations.
🔍 Sustainability isn't about giving up modern comforts—it's about finding smarter ways to enjoy them that don't compromise the future!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding Human Effects on Our Environment
Environmental changes are happening all around us, and much of it is due to human activities. This topic explores how our actions impact Earth's atmosphere, climate systems, and natural resources, as well as the consequences these changes have for our... Show more
Earth's Atmosphere and the Greenhouse Effect
Our atmosphere is a thin layer of gases (78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, 1% other gases) that protects Earth and makes life possible. When solar radiation reaches Earth, some is reflected back to space while the rest is absorbed by the surface and atmosphere.
The greenhouse effect is a natural process where certain gases trap heat and maintain Earth's temperature. When the Earth's surface gives off infrared radiation, greenhouse gases like water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide absorb and redirect this energy back to the surface instead of letting it escape to space.
Global warming occurs when the greenhouse effect intensifies due to increased greenhouse gas concentrations. While some temperature fluctuations are natural, human activities significantly contribute to the problem. We release carbon dioxide through burning fossil fuels and deforestation, while methane comes from livestock, rice cultivation, and landfills.
💡 Think of the greenhouse effect like a blanket around Earth - we need it to stay warm, but adding too many layers (extra greenhouse gases) makes the planet overheat!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Consequences of Global Warming
When greenhouse gases increase in our atmosphere, they trap more heat, causing global temperatures to rise. This warming triggers widespread climate change - shifts in long-term weather patterns that affect the entire planet.
One of the most visible effects is melting ice. Polar regions and glaciers are losing massive amounts of ice, contributing to rising sea levels. Oceans are also becoming warmer and more acidic, which damages marine ecosystems and alters ocean currents that regulate regional climates.
These changes dramatically impact ecosystems worldwide. Growing seasons shift, animal migration patterns change, and many species face extinction when they can't adapt quickly enough. Humans aren't immune either - we face increased heat-related deaths, changing disease patterns, water supply disruptions, and property damage from extreme weather.
Natural resources fall into two categories: renewable resources that can be replenished (like forests or solar energy) and nonrenewable resources that cannot be replaced once used up (like fossil fuels or minerals).
⚠️ Even small temperature increases can have huge impacts! A global increase of just 2°C (3.6°F) can lead to significant ecosystem changes and extreme weather events.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Human Resource Use and Environmental Impact
As our global population grows, so does our demand for natural resources. We rely heavily on fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) for 90% of the world's energy needs. We're also consuming more freshwater, despite only 1% being readily available for human use.
Our expanding population requires more land for agriculture, mining, and urban development. We harvest more trees for wood products and catch more fish to meet growing demand. This consumption pattern puts enormous pressure on natural systems.
Invasive species disrupt ecosystems when they're introduced to new areas and outcompete native species. They can cause environmental damage, economic losses, and even harm human health. Similarly, pollution introduces contaminants into natural environments. Whether it's landfills leaking chemicals, air pollution creating smog, or water pollution from oil spills, these contaminants degrade environmental quality.
Moving toward sustainability means managing our resource consumption to prevent depletion and environmental destruction. This includes developing alternative energy sources to replace fossil fuels, reducing water usage, and implementing responsible practices in agriculture, mining, and development.
🌱 You can practice sustainability in your daily life! Simple actions like reducing water use, recycling, and conserving energy make a real difference when millions of people participate.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Sustainable Solutions
Creating a sustainable future requires reimagining how we use resources. Instead of fossil fuels, we can transition to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power that produce fewer greenhouse gases.
Water conservation is crucial as freshwater becomes increasingly scarce. Simple changes like fixing leaks, using efficient appliances, and smarter agricultural irrigation can dramatically reduce consumption.
Land resources need protection through improved agricultural practices, responsible mining, and thoughtful urban development that minimizes environmental impact. For wildlife resources, sustainable logging, fishing, and hunting practices help ensure these resources remain available for future generations.
🔍 Sustainability isn't about giving up modern comforts—it's about finding smarter ways to enjoy them that don't compromise the future!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user