Flashcard - Matter and Energy in Ecosystems

Front

What is the role of decomposers in the ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

The flow of energy through the biosphere is primarily driven by the ______.

Back

Sun

Front

What is not a characteristic of a closed system?

Back

A closed system does not allow matter exchange with the environment outside the boundary.

Front

Which of the following organisms is considered a primary producer?

Back

Algae are considered primary producers as they convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis.

Front

In the photosynthesis equation, what are the reactants?

Back

The reactants in photosynthesis are water and carbon dioxide.

Front

Define 'ecosystem'.

Back

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment.

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll.

Front

What are consumers in an ecosystem?

Back

Consumers are organisms that obtain energy by feeding on other organisms.

Front

What is the difference between a food chain and a food web?

Back

A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms through which nutrients and energy pass, while a food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains.

Front

What is a primary consumer?

Back

A primary consumer is an organism that eats primary producers, typically herbivores.