16 Questions
What is the primary characteristic of an ecosystem in equilibrium?
Dominated by internal recycling of elements
Which of the following is NOT considered a function of an ecosystem?
Maintaining a balance among trophic levels
What is the primary distinction between an ecosystem in equilibrium and one in non-equilibrium?
The occurrence of disturbance as a natural component
Which of the following terms best describes the state of an ecosystem where the balance between inputs and outputs shows no trend over time?
Steady state equilibrium
What is the primary focus of ecosystem ecology?
The interactions between organisms and their environment
Which of the following is NOT considered a biotic factor in an ecosystem?
Abiotic pools
What is the main purpose of the energy flow in an ecosystem?
To power the life processes of different organisms
How do producers acquire the energy they use?
From the sun in the form of light
What happens to the energy that is not used by producers?
It is passed on to organisms that cannot make their own energy
What is the primary distinction between a food chain and a food web?
Food chains represent a single pathway of energy transfer, while food webs represent multiple pathways
What is the main characteristic of an ecosystem in thermodynamic equilibrium?
The ecosystem has no net change in energy or matter over time
What is the primary role of detritivores in an ecosystem?
To break down organic matter into inorganic compounds
What is the primary reason for the decrease in available energy as you move up the energy pyramid?
Energy is lost through respiration and waste production at each trophic level
Which of the following best describes the role of biogeochemical cycles in ecosystems?
They facilitate the transfer of matter between biotic and abiotic components
Which of the following consumers would be found at the highest trophic level in a typical food chain?
Carnivores
What is the primary difference between a food chain and a food web?
A food chain represents a linear sequence of energy transfer, while a food web shows interconnected relationships
This quiz covers the basic concepts of ecosystems including their structure, functioning, and dynamics. Topics include biotic and abiotic factors, ecosystem ecology, and the interactions of organisms within ecosystems.
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