Concept explainers
Extinctions have occurred throughout the history of life on Earth. Why should we care if humans are causing a mass extinction event now?
To apply:
Extinctions have occurred throughout the history of life on Earth then why should an individual care, if humans are causing a mass extinction event now.
Introduction:
The history of life has been characterized by uniform turnover of species as some are replaced by new ones and others go extinct. The event in which a large number of species disappears within a short duration of time is known as mass extinction. It is probably caused by some combinations of catastrophic events and climate change such as volcanic eruption and meteorite impacts.
Explanation of Solution
From the beginning of life on Earth’s, extinctions took place all over the time. Such extinctions occurred naturally and no other factor except natural factors is responsible and due to these extinctions, organisms are evolved. They never imbalanced the ecosystem as humans are evolved from mass extinction of dinosaurs.
Therefore, these extinctions did not cause large negative impact but are more advantageous. The mass extinction event that is taking place due to activities of humans is a serious issue and should be taken care. Mass extinction by humans is a disturbing ecosystem in a wide range which results in a decrease of valuable resources that is to be passed onto next generations.
Thus, humans are affecting the environment so badly that it cannot be reversed which is putting many lives in danger. So environment should be preserved and mass extinction caused by humans has to be taken care of.
The mass extinction that is caused by humans cannot be reversed thus it has to be taken care of.
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Chapter 18 Solutions
Mastering Biology with Pearson eText -- Standalone Access Card -- for Biology: Life on Earth with Physiology (11th Edition)
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