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unit 4
Unit 4 | The changing Earth - the cause and impact of Earth hazards
"In Unit 4, students explore the ways Earth and environmental science is used to describe and explain the cause and effect of naturally occurring Earth hazards and the ways they are affected by Earth systems. An understanding of the causes of naturally occurring hazards is essential to appreciate their impacts and the development of management and mitigation strategies. Students design and conduct experiments and investigations to collect primary and secondary data about Earth hazards and associated processes and techniques. They examine ways in which human activities can contribute to the frequency, magnitude and intensity of Earth hazards. This unit focuses on the timescales at which the effects of natural and human-induced change are apparent, and ways in which scientific data is used to provide strategic direction for the mitigation of Earth hazards and environmental management decisions" (QCAA, 2019).
topic 1
Topic 1: The cause and impact of Earth hazards
- Remote sensing centre"cientists in our remote sensing centre use data from satellites, airborne sensors and ground-based platforms to map and monitor Queensland’s landscape. They look at imagery of groundcover, land use, vegetation change, fire scars and water bodies across the state."
- Flood mapping"The Queensland Government works with councils and the private sector to develop products and services to assist in mitigating, preparing, responding and recovering from flood events across the state. We also have a collection of flood imagery and data from 1974 to 2017 which is used for recovery activities and future planning ... "
- What are the consequences of floods?"Floods impact on both individuals and communities, and have social, economic, and environmental consequences. The consequences of floods, both negative and positive, vary greatly depending on the location and extent of flooding, and the vulnerability and value of the natural and constructed environments they affect ... "
- Incidents and disaster recoveryAccess the Queensland Government's resources; including, environmental incidents, disaster recovery, 2010-2011 flood impacts and more.
topic 2
Topic 2: The cause and impact of global climate change
- Long PaddockAccess the Queensland Future Climate dashboard (Long Paddock) along with the Queensland Climate Adaptation Strategy.
- APSIM: The Leading Software Framework for Agricultural Systems Modelling and Simulation"The Agricultural Production Systems sIMulator (APSIM) is internationally recognised as a highly advanced platform for modelling and simulation of agricultural systems. It contains a suite of modules that enable the simulation of systems for a diverse range of plant, animal, soil, climate and management interactions. APSIM is undergoing continual development, with new capability added to regular releases of official versions. Its development and maintenance is underpinned by rigorous science and software engineering standards ... "
- The Queensland Water Modelling Network publicationsAccess the Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science Water Modelling Projects; including, Climate Change and Water Modelling in Queensland, and more ...