Introduction to Ecology Worksheet

What is the main topic introduced in this section of the learning material?

• Introduction to Chemistry

• Introduction to Ecology

• Introduction to Physics

• Introduction to Astronomy

What is the definition of a habitat?

• The way of life a species pursues within its habitat

• The surroundings in which a particular species can be found

• The process of adaptation in an environment

• The food chain in an ecosystem

Explain how organic residues contribute to the nitrogen cycle in soil.

• They directly release nitrogen gas into the atmosphere.

• They are converted into organic matter, which is then mineralized to ammonium.

• They are leached out of the soil as nitrates.

• They fix nitrogen from the atmosphere.

What is ammonification?

• Converting nitrogen gas to nitrates

• Converting nitrogen compounds to ammonia

• Converting ammonia to oxygen

• Converting carbon dioxide to glucose

Explain the difference between a scavenger and a decomposer in the context of nutrient cycling in an ecosystem.

• Scavengers break down dead organisms at a microscopic level, while decomposers eat dead organisms.

• Scavengers feed off dead organisms or wastes, while decomposers break down dead organisms and return nutrients to the soil.

• Scavengers are autotrophic, while decomposers are heterotrophic.

• Scavengers only eat plants, while decomposers only eat animals.

What percentage of the available light energy from the sun do plants capture for biomass production?

• 1%

• 10%

• 50%

• 100%

Which process allows plants to convert light energy from the sun into biomass?

• Photosynthesis

• Respiration

• Fermentation

• Digestion

Which group is found at the base of the pyramid of numbers?

• 2nd carnivore

• 1st carnivore

• Herbivore

• Producers

Explain how the physical size of organisms can affect the shape of the pyramid of numbers.

• Larger organisms always increase the number at higher levels

• Smaller organisms at lower levels can support more individuals at higher levels, changing the pyramid's shape

• Physical size does not affect the pyramid

• Only the number of producers matters

What is the definition of competition in ecology?

• The process of photosynthesis in plants

• The struggle among organisms for the limited natural resources

• The movement of animals from one place to another

• The process of cellular respiration