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Glossary
A glossary of science-related words.
Glossary terms A–Z definitions
- Kelvin
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An SI (international system of units) temperature scale used by scientists. It goes up in the same steps as the Celsius scale, but starts at absolute zero (-273°C).
- kerogen
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A mixture of solid organic chemical compounds found in sedimentary rocks, when heated it forms the base for the formation of oil and gas.
- keystone species
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A species that has a greater impact on the community of organisms in an ecosystem than you would expect in relation to its abundance. The removal of a keystone species often has a dramatic effect on the ecosystem.
- kinetic
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Relating to motion or movement.
- kinetic energy
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The extra energy of an object that it possesses due to its motion.
- kingdom
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A division used in the Linnean system of classification or taxonomy.
- kiore
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A type of rat introduced to New Zealand by the Polynesians settlers.
- kōkopu
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A type of native fish. There are three known species in New Zealand – giant, banded and shortjaw.
- krill
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Small marine crustaceans that are found in all the world's oceans.
