Describe in your own words what you understand by the term 'ecology'.
The term ecology refers to the web of physical and biological systems and processes of which humans are one element. It includes mountains, rivers, plains, oceans, and the flora and fauna that they support.
The ecology of a place is shaped by the interaction between its geography and hydrology. For instance, the plant and animal life in a desert is adapted to its scarce rainfall and extreme temperatures.
Ecology forms the basis of all societies. While ecological factors limit and shape how humans can live in a place, ecology itself is modified by human action over time.
Explanation
This answer draws directly from the textbook definition of ecology. The key points covered are: (1) the definition of ecology as a web of physical and biological systems, (2) examples of what constitutes ecology (mountains, rivers, flora, fauna), (3) how geography and hydrology affect ecology, and (4) the two-way relationship between ecology and human society. The answer stays within the 80-120 word limit appropriate for a 3-mark question.