Ecology & Environment

Definition and origin of ecology, Basic concepts of ecology, Major divisions of ecology, Definition of environment, Interaction among ecological factors – light & temperature, precipitation, humidity, gases/wind, topography. Global warming & climate change, Loss of bio-diversity, Desertification, Deforestation,

Kind of ecosystem, Structure, Function and energy flow of ecosystem. Ecological succession, Ecosystem development, Climax concept.

Soil – Edafic Factors Definition of soil, Formation of soil, Soil profile, Classification, Soil complex, Soil depletion, degradation and conservation, relation of soil and built environment.

Water in nature, Water balance problem, Surface / ground water, Sources of water pollution, Ground water pollution, Marine pollution, Prevention control of pollution, Conservation & management, impact of human intervention on water.

Kinds of air pollution, Sources of air pollutants, Effects – Depletion of Ozone, Acid Rain, Prevention & control of air – pollution, Noise pollution, Effect of human habitat and human activity on atmosphere.

Understanding the interrelationship between man, nature and built-form (in urban / rural area).