Matter and Energy in the Environment # 3

Front

What happens to energy that is not passed on in an energy pyramid?

Back

It is lost to the environment as heat or is decomposed as waste.

Front

What do the arrows in a food chain diagram represent?

Back

They show what direction the energy is flowing between organisms.

Front

If a plant absorbs 2,587 calories of sunlight, how many calories are passed to the caterpillars that eat it, assuming a 10% energy transfer?

Back

258.7 calories.

Front

What is the primary source of energy for phytoplankton?

Back

Sunlight.

Front

How does the amount of potential food available change in an ecological pyramid?

Back

It decreases from bottom to top.

Front

Define 'trophic level'.

Back

A trophic level is a position in a food chain or food web, representing the flow of energy and nutrients.

Front

What is an energy pyramid?

Back

An energy pyramid is a graphical representation showing the flow of energy at each trophic level in an ecosystem.

Front

Explain the concept of energy transfer in ecosystems.

Back

Energy transfer in ecosystems refers to the movement of energy through food chains, where energy decreases at each trophic level.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and completing the nutrient cycle.

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

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