smell
Definition
Small is a relative term that means something has a smaller size than something else. It is a subjective term, and what is considered small depends on the context.
In science, small can be used to describe the size of objects or organisms. For example, a bacterium is a very small organism that is about 1 micrometer in size. A grain of sand is also very small, but it is about 1 millimetre in size.
Small can also be used to describe the size of distances. For example, the distance between two atoms is about 0.1 nanometers in size. The distance between two stars is about 1 light-year in size.
The concept of small is often used in physics and chemistry to describe the behaviour of matter at the atomic and molecular levels. For example, the laws of quantum mechanics govern the behaviour of matter at very small scales.
How can the word be used?
The flowers smell sweet.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
- the ability to detect odours.
- a distinctive odour.
Verb:
- to detect an odour.
- to have a distinctive odour.
Adjective:
- having a strong odour.
Etymology
The word "smell" comes from the Old English word "smellan", which also means "smell".
The first recorded use of the word "smell" in English was in the 8th century.
The word "smell" is an Old English word, and it is related to the Dutch word "ruiken" and the German word "riechen".
Question
Why is our sense of smell important?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the concept of a small-scale ecosystem and provide examples of such ecosystems, highlighting their interactions among biotic and abiotic components.
Answer:
A small-scale ecosystem refers to a localised and self-contained ecological system that operates on a smaller spatial and organisational level. These ecosystems provide insights into how various organisms interact with each other and their physical environment in a confined space.
Examples of small-scale ecosystems include a backyard pond, a terrarium, or a tree stump. In a backyard pond, aquatic plants and animals interact within the water, while insects and birds interact with the pond's surroundings. A terrarium simulates a miniature ecosystem within a glass container, with plants producing oxygen and organisms like insects and microorganisms recycling nutrients. A decaying tree stump can host fungi, insects, and birds, showcasing intricate relationships between different species.
Interactions within these ecosystems involve both biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components. Organisms compete for resources like sunlight, water, and nutrients, while predator-prey relationships and symbiotic interactions shape population dynamics. Abiotic factors such as temperature, moisture, and soil composition influence the survival and distribution of organisms.
Small-scale ecosystems provide a simplified model for studying ecological principles, aiding our understanding of larger natural systems. Exploring these ecosystems deepens our awareness of how organisms adapt, compete, and cooperate, ultimately contributing to our comprehension of the intricate web of life and the delicate balance between living and non-living elements.