Understanding Biogeochemical Cycles and Energy Pyramids

Front

What is denitrification in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Denitrification is the conversion of nitrates into nitrogen gas by denitrifying bacteria.

Front

In the carbon cycle, what process removes CO2 from the atmosphere?

Back

Photosynthesis is the only process that removes CO2 from the atmosphere.

Front

How does nitrogen get fixed into the ecosystem?

Back

Nitrogen gets fixed into the ecosystem by lightning and nitrogen-fixing bacteria.

Front

What is the purpose of an energy pyramid?

Back

To illustrate the distribution of energy among trophic levels.

Front

If producers get 100% of the energy, how much energy do secondary consumers get?

Back

Secondary consumers get 1% of the energy.

Front

What are biogeochemical cycles?

Back

Biogeochemical cycles are natural processes that recycle nutrients in various chemical forms from the nonliving environment to living organisms and back.

Front

What role do decomposers play in ecosystems?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and making them available for plants.

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth.

Front

What is the significance of producers in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers convert solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.

Front

What is the difference between primary and secondary consumers?

Back

Primary consumers eat producers (plants), while secondary consumers eat primary consumers (herbivores).