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zone

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Secondary Information

Definition

A zone is a specific area or region that is different from other areas in some way. In science, zones can be defined by a variety of factors, such as temperature, pressure, or composition. For example, the Earth's atmosphere is divided into different zones, such as the troposphere, the stratosphere, and the mesosphere. Each zone has its own unique properties.

Here are some other examples of zones:

  • In biology: The body can be divided into different zones, such as the epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis. Each zone has its own unique function.
  • In geology: The Earth's crust can be divided into different zones, such as the oceanic crust and the continental crust. Each zone has its own unique composition.
  • In climate science: The Earth's atmosphere can be divided into different zones, such as the troposphere, the stratosphere, and the mesosphere. Each zone has its own unique temperature and pressure.

How can the word be used?

The library has a zone for children and a zone for adults.

zone

Different forms of the word

Noun: zone (plural: zones).

  • a particular area or region.
  • a specific area of activity or interest.
  • a state of intense concentration.

Adjective: zoned.

  • divided into zones.

Verb: to zone.

  • to divide into zones.
  • to concentrate on something.

Etymology

The word "zone" comes from the Greek word "zona", which means "girdle" or "belt". The Greek word "zona" is related to the Latin word "zona" and the English word "girdle".

The word "zone" is first attested in English in the 14th century. It was originally used to refer to a belt or girdle, but it soon came to be used to refer to any area or region that is set apart from others.

Question

What is a zone?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Explain the concept of an ecological zone and its significance in understanding the distribution of organisms. Discuss how abiotic factors, such as temperature and precipitation, influence the characteristics of different ecological zones.

Answer:

An ecological zone refers to a specific geographic area characterised by distinct environmental conditions, which influence the types of organisms that inhabit it. These zones provide insights into the relationships between living organisms and their surroundings, shedding light on the adaptations that enable life to thrive in different habitats.

Abiotic factors, such as temperature and precipitation, play a pivotal role in determining the characteristics of ecological zones. For example, in temperate zones with moderate temperatures and abundant rainfall, forests are prevalent, housing a variety of plant and animal species adapted to these conditions. In contrast, arid zones with limited precipitation give rise to deserts, where organisms have evolved specialised adaptations to conserve water and endure extreme heat.

Mountainous regions showcase the influence of altitude on ecological zones. As elevation increases, temperature decreases, leading to the formation of distinct zones known as altitudinal belts. Each belt houses unique species adapted to the temperature and environmental conditions of that elevation range.

Understanding ecological zones is crucial for conservation efforts and predicting how ecosystems might respond to environmental changes. By recognising the delicate balance between abiotic factors and organism adaptations, scientists can better comprehend the intricate dynamics of Earth's diverse habitats and the potential impacts of human activities on these zones.