ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

PRERNA FOR IAS

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

1. Environmental Science

Environmental Science is the study of the interaction between living organisms and their surroundings. It combines knowledge from biology, chemistry, physics, geography, and ecology to understand environmental processes and solve environmental problems. Environmental science examines natural resources, ecosystems, pollution, climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable development. Its main objective is to maintain a balance between human activities and nature. A healthy environment is essential for human survival, economic growth, and social well-being. Environmental science helps create awareness about conservation and promotes responsible use of natural resources for present and future generations.

2. Physical Environment (Abiotic Environment)

The physical or abiotic environment consists of non-living components such as air, water, soil, sunlight, temperature, and minerals. These factors influence the survival, growth, and distribution of living organisms. Abiotic components provide essential resources needed for life and determine the characteristics of ecosystems. Climate, rainfall, and landforms are also part of the physical environment. Changes in abiotic factors can significantly affect ecological balance and biodiversity. Understanding the physical environment is important for agriculture, resource management, environmental planning, and conservation. It forms the foundation upon which all biological activities and ecosystem functions depend.

3. Living Environment (Biotic Environment)

The living or biotic environment includes all living organisms such as plants, animals, microorganisms, and humans. These organisms interact with one another and with the physical environment to form ecosystems. Biotic components are classified as producers, consumers, and decomposers. Plants produce food through photosynthesis, animals consume plants or other animals, and microorganisms decompose dead matter. These interactions maintain ecological balance and nutrient cycling. The biotic environment supports biodiversity and contributes to ecosystem stability. Understanding living components helps scientists study food chains, population dynamics, species conservation, and the overall functioning of natural ecosystems.

4. Atmospheric Gases: Constant and Variable Gases