energy flow in ecosystems

Front

What process do plants use to turn sunlight into food energy?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose (food) and oxygen.

Front

What is a primary consumer in a food chain?

Back

A primary consumer is an organism that eats producers (plants). Herbivores, like rabbits and deer, are examples of primary consumers.

Front

What part of a plant captures sunlight?

Back

Leaves are the part of a plant responsible for capturing sunlight to perform photosynthesis.

Front

What is a food web?

Back

A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem, showing how energy and nutrients flow between organisms.

Front

Why does every food chain begin with a producer?

Back

Every food chain begins with a producer because producers, like plants, can create their own food through photosynthesis, while animals cannot.

Front

What is a producer in an ecosystem?

Back

A producer is an organism that can make its own food, typically through photosynthesis, such as plants and algae.

Front

What is a consumer in an ecosystem?

Back

A consumer is an organism that cannot produce its own food and must eat other organisms (plants or animals) for energy.

Front

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organisms and waste, returning nutrients to the soil and helping to recycle matter in the ecosystem.

Front

What is a herbivore?

Back

A herbivore is an animal that primarily eats plants. Examples include cows, rabbits, and elephants.

Front

What is a carnivore?

Back

A carnivore is an animal that primarily eats other animals. Examples include lions, hawks, and sharks.