The discipline that applies ecological principles to returning degraded ecosystems to a more natural state is known as a. restoration ecology. b. thermodynamics. c. eutrophication. d. biogeochemistry.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key terms in the question: 'ecological principles', 'degraded ecosystems', 'natural state'.
2. Understand that the question is asking about the field of study that uses ecological principles to repair or restore ecosystems that have been degraded.
3. Recognize that 'restoration ecology' directly refers to the restoration of ecosystems, which aligns with the description in the question.
4. Eliminate the other options: 'thermodynamics' is a branch of physics dealing with heat and energy, 'eutrophication' refers to the enrichment of water bodies with nutrients leading to excessive growth of algae, and 'biogeochemistry' involves the study of chemical processes in the biosphere.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is 'a. restoration ecology.' as it specifically focuses on restoring ecosystems using ecological principles.

Key Concepts

Restoration Ecology

Restoration ecology is a branch of ecology focused on the recovery and rehabilitation of degraded ecosystems. It involves understanding the ecological processes and species interactions necessary to restore habitats to their natural state. This discipline employs various techniques, such as reforestation and wetland restoration, to enhance biodiversity and ecosystem functionality.

Ecosystem Degradation

Ecosystem degradation refers to the deterioration of the environment through the depletion of resources, loss of biodiversity, and the disruption of ecosystem services. Factors such as pollution, deforestation, and climate change contribute to this degradation, making restoration efforts essential for maintaining ecological balance and health.

Ecological Principles

Ecological principles are foundational concepts that describe the relationships between organisms and their environment. These principles include concepts such as energy flow, nutrient cycling, and species interactions, which are crucial for understanding how ecosystems function and how they can be restored effectively after degradation.