Biology Unit 10 Ecology

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What is an energy pyramid?

Back

An energy pyramid is a graphical representation that shows the flow of energy through different trophic levels in an ecosystem, illustrating how energy decreases as it moves from producers to top predators.

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What is biological magnification?

Back

Biological magnification is the process by which the concentration of toxic substances increases in organisms at each successive level of the food chain.

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What are biotic factors?

Back

Biotic factors are the living components of an ecosystem that affect the population and community structure, such as predators, parasites, and competition.

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What is carrying capacity?

Back

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

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What role do producers play in an ecosystem?

Back

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

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What is the relationship between predators and prey?

Back

Predators are organisms that hunt and consume other organisms (prey), influencing the population dynamics and health of both species.

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How do animals obtain carbon compounds?

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Animals obtain usable atmospheric carbon primarily through the digestion of plants that carry out photosynthesis.

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What is the significance of competition in ecosystems?

Back

Competition occurs when organisms vie for the same resources, which can limit population growth and affect community structure.

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What is the difference between herbivores and carnivores?

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Herbivores are organisms that primarily consume plants, while carnivores are organisms that primarily consume other animals.

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What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

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Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem and supporting plant growth.