C4.2 Transfers of energy and matter (Combined SL & HL)

What is an ecosystem defined as?

• A group of organisms interacting with each other and with the non-living parts of the environment

• A single organism living in a specific habitat

• A community of animals living together

• A group of plants in a garden

Why are ecosystems considered open systems?

• Both energy and matter can enter and exit the system

• Neither energy nor matter can enter or exit the system

• Only energy can enter and exit the system

• Only matter can enter and exit the system

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

What is the initial source of energy for most food chains?

• Geothermal energy

• Sunlight

• Wind energy

• Nuclear energy

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-5

NGSS.HS-LS2-5

What is the role of decomposers in energy loss in ecosystems?

• Store excess energy in the ecosystem

• Increase energy transfer between trophic levels

• Break down dead organisms and waste, releasing nutrients back into the environment

• Prevent energy loss in the food chain

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS2-6

What is the main difference between autotrophs and heterotrophs?

• Autotrophs only live in aquatic environments, while heterotrophs live on land

• Autotrophs consume other organisms, while heterotrophs produce their own organic molecules

• Heterotrophs are producers, while autotrophs are consumers

• Autotrophs produce their own organic molecules, while heterotrophs consume other organisms for energy

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

What is the main reason for the limited length of food chains?

• Limited food supply for primary consumers

• Excessive competition among organisms

• Energy losses at each trophic level result in less energy available for higher trophic levels

• Lack of predators in the ecosystem

What is the primary function of carbon sinks in the carbon cycle?

• Take up and store carbon from the atmosphere

• Release carbon into the atmosphere

• Convert carbon into energy for organisms

• Produce oxygen for respiration

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS2-6

NGSS.HS-LS2-5

What is the overall trend in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels according to the Keeling curve?

• Unpredictable fluctuations

• Stable over time

• Decreasing due to natural processes

• Increasing due to human combustion of fossil fuels

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS2-6

NGSS.HS-ESS3-5

What is the main process by which carbon is returned to the atmosphere?

• Absorption by carbon sinks

• Combustion of fossil fuels and organic material

• Photosynthesis by autotrophs

• Decomposition by detritivores

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS2-6

What is the role of decomposers in nutrient cycling in ecosystems?

• Break down dead tissues and waste, releasing nutrients back into the environment

• Store excess nutrients in the ecosystem

• Increase nutrient availability for producers

• Prevent nutrient recycling

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3