Energy Flow in Ecosystems
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Energy Flow in Ecosystems

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Questions and Answers

What is the process by which green plants convert sunlight into glucose and oxygen?

  • Respiration
  • Transpiration
  • Fermentation
  • Photosynthesis (correct)
  • Less than 1% of the sunlight that reaches Earth is used by living organisms.

    True

    What term is used to describe organisms that can produce their own food using sunlight?

    Autotrophs

    Organisms that cannot make their own food and rely on other organisms for energy are called __________.

    <p>heterotrophs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following terms with their definitions:

    <p>Autotrophs = Organisms that produce their own food Heterotrophs = Organisms that acquire energy from other organisms Photosynthesis = Process of converting light energy into chemical energy Chemosynthesis = Process of producing food without light</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Energy Flow in Ecosystems

    • The sun is the ultimate source of energy for life on Earth.
    • Less than 1% of the sun's energy reaching Earth is used by living organisms.
    • Photosynthesis is the process used by plants, algae, and some bacteria to convert light energy into chemical energy.
    • Organisms that cannot photosynthesize rely on the stored energy in glucose for their energy needs.
    • Photosynthesis releases oxygen and removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

    Autotrophs (Producers)

    • Autotrophs convert inorganic substances into organic substances using energy from the sun.
    • They are the primary producers in ecosystems, creating food for other organisms.
    • Examples of autotrophs include plants, algae, cyanobacteria, and some protists.
    • Plants are the dominant autotrophs on land, while algae are the dominant autotrophs in aquatic ecosystems.
    • Autotrophs are vital for the flow of energy and life on Earth, providing food and oxygen.
    • Some autotrophs use chemosynthesis, a process that utilizes energy from inorganic molecules (like hydrogen sulfide) to produce food.

    Heterotrophs (Consumers)

    • Heterotrophs obtain energy by consuming other organisms.
    • They are unable to make their own food.
    • Types of heterotrophs include:
      • Herbivores: Eat only plants.
      • Carnivores: Eat other animals.
      • Omnivores: Eat both plants and animals.
      • Detritivores: Feed on dead organic matter (like vultures, earthworms, snails, crabs).
      • Decomposers: Break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the ecosystem (like bacteria and fungi).

    The Importance of Decomposers

    • Decomposers recycle nutrients, preventing the buildup of dead organic matter.
    • Without decomposers, the supply of essential chemical elements would be depleted, leading to the collapse of ecosystems.
    • Decomposers make nutrients from dead organisms and waste available to autotrophs.

    Energy Flow Summary

    • Energy enters the ecosystem as sunlight.
    • Autotrophs convert sunlight into chemical energy in the form of organic compounds.
    • Heterotrophs obtain energy by consuming autotrophs or other heterotrophs.
    • Energy flows through the ecosystem in a one-way direction, eventually being lost as heat.

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    Description

    Explore the fundamental concepts of energy flow within ecosystems, highlighting the crucial role of the sun and the process of photosynthesis. Understand the significance of autotrophs as primary producers and their importance in supporting life. This quiz covers key terms and processes that are vital for ecosystem health.

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