Ecosystems Chapter 21

Ecologists study feeding patterns to learn how energy flows within a(n) __.

• species
• ecosystem
• population
• niche

Organisms that use the sun's energy to turn water and carbon dioxide into food molecules are called

• decomposers
• pioneer species
• consumers
• producers

A diagram that shows the amount of energy that moves from one feeding level to another in an ecosystem is called a(n)

• food chain
• food web
• succession
• energy pyramid

Wind, water, and living things are three means of __________________.

• dispersal
• succession
• decomposition
• continental drift

A(n) _____________________ is a carnivore that feeds on the bodies of dead organisms.

• decomposer
• producer
• scavenger
• herbivore

Plants, algae, and some microorganisms make food molecules in the process of

• photosynthesis
• decomposition
• succession
• nitrogen fixation

The very slow motion of huge blocks of Earth's crust is called _________.

• decomposition
• continental drift
• succession
• dispersal

Organisms that obtain energy by feeding on other organisms are ________.

• producers
• consumers
• decomposers
• herbivores

Physical barriers, competition, and climate conditions can limit the _________ of a species.

• succession
• decomposition
• condensation
• dispersal

Which of the following is true about an energy pyramid?

• The greatest amount of energy is available at the producer level.
• At each higher level of the pyramid, there is more energy available.
• About half the energy from one level is transferred to the next level.
• Most food webs have five or more feeding levels.