Pop & Eco Investigation 6 Test

Front

What is an energy pyramid?

Back

An energy pyramid is a graphical representation that shows the flow of energy through different trophic levels in an ecosystem, illustrating how energy decreases as it moves from producers to consumers.

Front

What is biomass?

Back

Biomass refers to the total mass of living organisms in a given area or volume, often used to measure the amount of energy available in an ecosystem.

Front

What is the role of producers in an ecosystem?

Back

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

Front

What happens to energy as it moves up the food chain?

Back

As energy moves up the food chain, it decreases due to energy loss at each trophic level, primarily through metabolic processes and heat.

Front

What is a food chain?

Back

A food chain is a linear sequence that shows how energy and nutrients flow from one organism to another in an ecosystem.

Front

What is a trophic level?

Back

A trophic level is a position in a food chain or food web, defined by how an organism obtains its energy, such as producers, primary consumers, and secondary consumers.

Front

Why do higher trophic levels require more biomass from lower levels?

Back

Higher trophic levels require more biomass from lower levels to obtain sufficient energy, as only about 10% of the energy is transferred from one level to the next.

Front

What is the significance of having a balanced ecosystem?

Back

A balanced ecosystem ensures that populations of organisms are maintained at sustainable levels, preventing overpopulation or extinction.

Front

What is the impact of removing a top predator from an ecosystem?

Back

Removing a top predator can lead to overpopulation of prey species, which may result in overgrazing and depletion of vegetation.

Front

How do brine flies and algae interact in an ecosystem?

Back

Brine flies feed on algae, creating a symbiotic relationship where algae provide food for the flies, and the flies help control algae growth.