MHS Biology Ecology Test Review

Front

What is an abiotic factor in an ecosystem?

Back

An abiotic factor is a non-living component of an ecosystem, such as water, sunlight, soil, and temperature.

Front

What biome is characterized by permafrost?

Back

The tundra biome is characterized by permafrost, which is permanently frozen ground.

Front

How much energy is available to secondary consumers if producers contain 10,000 kcal of energy?

Back

If producers contain 10,000 kcal of energy, only 100 kcal is available to secondary consumers.

Front

Why is the nitrogen cycle important?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is important because it is essential for the growth of organisms, as nitrogen is a key component of amino acids and nucleic acids.

Front

What happens to energy as you move up the trophic levels of the ecological pyramid?

Back

As you move up the trophic levels of the ecological pyramid, the amount of energy decreases.

Front

Define the term 'trophic level'.

Back

A trophic level is a position in a food chain or ecological pyramid, representing the flow of energy and nutrients from one level to the next.

Front

What is the primary source of energy for most ecosystems?

Back

The primary source of energy for most ecosystems is sunlight, which is captured by producers through photosynthesis.

Front

What role do producers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers, such as plants and algae, convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.

Front

Explain the concept of energy transfer in an ecosystem.

Back

Energy transfer in an ecosystem refers to the movement of energy from one trophic level to another, typically decreasing by about 90% at each level due to metabolic processes.

Front

What is the significance of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil and making them available for producers.