REVIEW: Matter & Energy Flow in Ecosystems (B.2.1)

Front

What is a food pyramid?

Back

A food pyramid is a graphical representation of the food chain that illustrates the energy flow and biomass at different trophic levels in an ecosystem.

Front

What happens to energy as it moves up the food pyramid?

Back

Energy is lost to the environment at each level, resulting in less mass that can be supported at higher levels.

Front

What is runoff in the context of ecosystems?

Back

Runoff is the flow of excess nitrogen and other substances from land into bodies of water, often due to precipitation.

Front

How do animals obtain nitrogen?

Back

Animals get nitrogen primarily by eating plants, which absorb nitrogen from the soil.

Front

Which organisms typically have the most available energy in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers, such as plants, have the most available energy, followed by primary consumers like herbivores.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and supporting plant growth.

Front

What is the significance of the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is crucial for converting nitrogen in the atmosphere into forms usable by living organisms, thus supporting life.

Front

What effect does an increase in a predator population have on its prey?

Back

An increase in predator population can lead to a decrease in prey population due to increased predation.

Front

What is the relationship between plankton and fish in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Plankton serve as a primary food source for many fish species, linking the energy flow from producers to higher trophic levels.

Front

How does excess fertilizer impact aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Excess fertilizer can lead to nutrient pollution, causing algal blooms that deplete oxygen and harm aquatic life.