Exploring Ecosystems and Energy Flow

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What is an ecosystem?

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An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) interacting with their physical environment (soil, water, and climate).

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What is energy flow in an ecosystem?

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Energy flow in an ecosystem refers to the transfer of energy from one organism to another through food chains and food webs, primarily starting from the sun to producers, then to consumers.

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Define abiotic factors.

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

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Define biotic factors.

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Biotic factors are the living components of an ecosystem, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms.

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What is a limiting factor in an ecosystem?

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A limiting factor is a resource or condition that limits the growth, abundance, or distribution of an organism or a population within an ecosystem.

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What is the difference between competition and predation?

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Competition occurs when two or more organisms vie for the same resource (like food or space), while predation involves one organism (the predator) feeding on another (the prey).

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What is a food chain?

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A food chain is a linear sequence that shows how energy and nutrients flow from one organism to another in an ecosystem.

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What is a food web?

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A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains that illustrates how energy and nutrients circulate within an ecosystem.

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What is a niche?

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A niche is the role or function of an organism within its ecosystem, including its habitat, resource use, and interactions with other organisms.

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What is mutualism?

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Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both organisms benefit from the interaction.