Science Ideas and Concepts

List of Science Ideas and Concepts resource items

• 
  

  Air quality – Article

  Particulates are liquid or solid particles fine enough to be suspended in the air. Smaller particulates are more harmful than larger ones because they reduce our ability breathe properly.

• 
  

  Biodegradability – Article

  A biodegradable object is one that will break down quickly and safely into harmless compounds by using the action of microorganisms.

• 
  

  Bioindicators – Article

  A bioindicator is a living organism that gives an idea of the health of an ecosystem. If pollutants are present, it may change its morphology, physiology or behaviour, or could die.

• 
  

  Soil quality – Article

  The soil has a variety of pollutants that can affect its quality. Farming and industrial practices, both past and present, can have a detrimental impact. New Zealand geology can also contribute to the levels of toxins in our soil.

• 
  

  Toxicity – Article

  The level of toxicity of a substance is related to the effect it has on an organism and how much of the substance, or how long the exposure, is needed to give an effect.

• 
  

  Water quality – Article

  The factors that affect water quality include where the water comes from, what is in the environment in the collection area and how it is treated.