Unit 2: Ecology (Exam Review)

Front

What is the energy transfer efficiency between trophic levels?

Back

Typically, only about 10% of the energy from one trophic level is transferred to the next level.

Front

Define abiotic factors in an ecosystem.

Back

Abiotic factors are non-living components of an ecosystem, such as sunlight, temperature, water, and minerals.

Front

What is logistical population growth?

Back

Logistical population growth occurs when a population's growth rate decreases as it reaches the carrying capacity of its environment.

Front

What are the two main types of consumers in an ecosystem?

Back

Primary consumers (herbivores) and secondary consumers (carnivores) are the two main types of consumers.

Front

Identify a producer in an ecosystem.

Back

A producer is an organism that can make its own food, typically through photosynthesis, such as plants.

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

Explain the concept of carrying capacity.

Back

Carrying capacity is the maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can sustainably support.

Front

What is the difference between density-dependent and density-independent factors?

Back

Density-dependent factors are influenced by population size (e.g., competition), while density-independent factors affect populations regardless of size (e.g., natural disasters).

Front

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

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

Front

Define trophic levels in an ecosystem.

Back

Trophic levels are the hierarchical levels in an ecosystem, comprising producers, primary consumers, secondary consumers, and so on.