Humber Admissions Practice Test

What is the primary focus of ecology?

1. The study of cellular structure and function

2. Change in inherited traits over generations

3. How organisms interact with each other and the environment

4. The adaptation of species in isolation

The correct answer is: How organisms interact with each other and the environment

The primary focus of ecology is centered on understanding how organisms interact with each other and with their environment. This field examines the relationships among living organisms, as well as between those organisms and their physical surroundings. These interactions can include various ecological processes such as predation, competition, symbiosis, and nutrient cycling. By studying these dynamics, ecologists aim to understand the distribution, abundance, and overall health of ecosystems. In contrast, the other options delve into different areas of biological study. The first option pertains to cellular biology, which focuses on the structure and function of cells, rather than broader ecological interactions. The second option relates to genetics and evolution, specifically concerning how traits are passed down and vary over generations, which, while it may influence ecological interactions, is not the main focus of ecology itself. The last option speaks to the concept of isolation and adaptation, which highlights evolutionary processes but does so in a way that overlooks the broader interactions and relationships among species in diverse ecosystems. Thus, choosing the correct option emphasizes the integral role of interactions in ecological studies.