APES Unit 01- The Living World: Ecosystems

Front

What are biotic components?

Back

Biotic components are living things in an ecosystem, including plants, animals, and microorganisms.

Front

What is the primary source of energy for most organisms on Earth?

Back

The primary source of energy for most organisms on Earth is the Sun.

Front

How is carbon primarily moved from the lithosphere to the atmosphere?

Back

The majority of carbon is moved from the lithosphere to the atmosphere through the burning of fossil fuels.

Front

What is gross primary productivity?

Back

Gross primary productivity is the total amount of energy that producers convert to chemical energy in organic molecules per unit of time.

Front

In what form does carbon return to the atmosphere after burning fossil fuels?

Back

Carbon returns to the atmosphere in the form of carbon dioxide.

Front

What are abiotic components?

Back

Abiotic components are non-living things in an ecosystem, such as water, air, soil, and sunlight.

Front

Define ecosystem.

Back

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment.

Front

What role do producers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers, such as plants, convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

Back

The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged among the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms.

Front

What is the significance of photosynthesis in ecosystems?

Back

Photosynthesis is crucial as it converts solar energy into chemical energy, providing food for producers and, indirectly, for consumers.