8C: Exploring Energy Flow in Ecosystems

Front

What is the primary source of energy for most ecosystems?

Back

The Sun.

Front

What is the role of producers in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers convert solar energy into chemical energy.

Front

How does energy loss at each trophic level affect ecosystem structure?

Back

It limits the number of trophic levels in an ecosystem.

Front

What happens to energy as it moves up trophic levels in an ecosystem?

Back

Energy decreases at each level.

Front

What role do decomposers play in the energy flow of a food web?

Back

Decomposers recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

Define 'trophic level'.

Back

A trophic level is a position in a food chain or food web, representing the flow of energy and nutrients.

Front

What is a food chain?

Back

A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms through which nutrients and energy pass as one organism eats another.

Front

What is a food web?

Back

A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem.

Front

Explain the concept of energy transfer in ecosystems.

Back

Energy transfer in ecosystems refers to the movement of energy from one trophic level to another, typically decreasing at each level.

Front

What are primary consumers?

Back

Primary consumers are organisms that eat producers; they are typically herbivores.