Ecosystem Interactions and Energy Flow

The video tutorial covers the biosphere, ecology, and the interdependence of matter and energy in nature. It explains the levels of organization from species to biosphere, and the roles of biotic and abiotic factors. The video discusses energy producers and consumers, detailing autotrophs and heterotrophs, and explains energy flow through ecosystems via food chains and webs. It also covers trophic levels and ecological pyramids. Finally, it addresses the cycles of matter, focusing on biogeochemical cycles and the recycling of nutrients within ecosystems.

What is the primary focus of ecology?

• The study of chemical reactions

• The study of human anatomy

• The study of celestial bodies

• The study of interactions among organisms and their environment

Which of the following is a biotic factor?

• Trees

• Rocks

• Weather

• Sunlight

What is the main energy source for primary producers?

• Chemical compounds

• Sunlight

• Soil nutrients

• Water

Which type of consumer feeds on both plants and animals?

• Carnivores

• Herbivores

• Omnivores

• Decomposers

What is the term for organisms that break down organic matter?

• Carnivores

• Herbivores

• Decomposers

• Scavengers

How does energy flow through an ecosystem?

• In a circular loop

• In a zigzag pattern

• In a one-way stream

• Randomly

What is a food web?

• A type of ecological pyramid

• A network of interconnected food chains

• A single food chain

• A diagram of energy flow

What does a pyramid of energy illustrate?

• The types of organisms in an ecosystem

• The biomass at each trophic level

• The energy transfer between trophic levels

• The number of organisms at each trophic level

What is the main difference between energy flow and matter cycling in ecosystems?

• Energy is recycled, matter is not

• Neither is recycled

• Matter is recycled, energy is not

• Both are recycled

What is a limiting nutrient?

• A nutrient that is abundant in the ecosystem

• A nutrient that limits the productivity of primary producers

• A nutrient that is not essential for life

• A nutrient that is only found in aquatic ecosystems