Food Chains and Food Webs

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What is a food chain?

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A food chain is a linear sequence that shows how energy and nutrients flow from one organism to another in an ecosystem, starting from producers to various levels of consumers.

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What is a food web?

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A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem, illustrating how different organisms are related through feeding relationships.

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What is a producer?

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A producer is an organism, usually a plant, that can make its own food through photosynthesis, providing energy for primary consumers.

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What is a primary consumer?

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A primary consumer is an organism that eats producers; they are typically herbivores that feed on plants.

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What is a secondary consumer?

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A secondary consumer is an organism that eats primary consumers; they can be carnivores or omnivores.

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What is a tertiary consumer?

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A tertiary consumer is an organism that eats secondary consumers; they are often at the top of the food chain.

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What is photosynthesis?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

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What role does sunlight play in a food chain?

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Sunlight is the primary source of energy for most ecosystems, initiating the food chain by providing energy for producers.

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What is an energy pyramid?

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An energy pyramid is a graphical representation that shows the flow of energy at different trophic levels in an ecosystem, with producers at the base and top consumers at the apex.

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Why are there fewer organisms at the top of the energy pyramid?

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There are fewer organisms at the top of the energy pyramid because energy is lost at each trophic level, making it less available for higher-level consumers.