Ecosystem

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What is an ecosystem?

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An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (biotic factors) and their physical environment (abiotic factors) interacting as a system.

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What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

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Decomposers break down dead organisms and organic waste, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

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Identify a primary consumer in an ecosystem.

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A primary consumer is an organism that eats producers; for example, a horse is a primary consumer.

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What are biotic factors in an ecosystem?

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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 producer in an ecosystem?

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A producer is an organism that can make its own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, such as grass.

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What are abiotic factors in an ecosystem?

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Abiotic factors are the nonliving physical and chemical components of an ecosystem, such as sunlight, water, temperature, and soil.

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Explain the difference between a food chain and a food web.

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A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms where each is eaten by the next, while a food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains.

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What is the significance of biodiversity in an ecosystem?

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Biodiversity enhances ecosystem productivity, stability, and resilience, allowing ecosystems to better withstand environmental changes.

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Define a trophic level in an ecosystem.

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A trophic level is a position in a food chain or food web, defined by how an organism obtains its energy, such as producers, primary consumers, and secondary consumers.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-3

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What is the role of herbivores in an ecosystem?

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Herbivores are primary consumers that feed on plants, playing a crucial role in transferring energy from producers to higher trophic levels.

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