Mastering Energy Balance

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What is the role of autotrophs in energy transfer?

Autotrophs capture energy from nonliving sources and convert it into forms living cells can use. They also store energy in ways that make it available to other organisms.

What are primary producers?

Primary producers are the first producers of energy-rich compounds that can be used later by other organisms.

What is the process by which plants and algae harness solar energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into carbohydrates?

Photosynthesis.

What is the significance of photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis produces oxygen that is released into the atmosphere and removes (and stores) carbon dioxide. Without photosynthesis, there would be no oxygen to breathe. Signup and view all the answers

In which ecosystems are plants the main primary producers?

On land. Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary producers in freshwater ecosystems?

Plants and algae. Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary producers in sunlit parts of the ocean?

Algae. Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary producers in tidal flats, salt marshes, and mangrove forests?

Certain bacteria. Signup and view all the answers

Can organisms create energy?

No, organisms cannot create energy. Signup and view all the answers

What is the source of the energy released when we burn fossil fuels?

Fossil fuels release energy captured and stored by organisms millions of years ago. Signup and view all the answers

What is chemosynthesis?

Chemosynthesis is a process in which chemical energy powers the production of carbohydrates. Signup and view all the answers

Where do chemosynthetic bacteria live?

Chemosynthetic bacteria live in the tissues of certain types of worms and large clams around volcanic vents in the ocean, as well as deep within Earth's crust and in underground streams and caves. Signup and view all the answers

What is the ecological significance of chemosynthesis?

Chemosynthetic primary producers are more common and live in many more environments than previously expected. Signup and view all the answers

What are heterotrophs?

Heterotrophs are organisms that cannot harness energy directly from the environment and must acquire energy from other organisms. Signup and view all the answers

Why do animals, fungi, and many bacteria rely on other organisms for energy?

They cannot manufacture an enzyme that can break down cellulose molecules, which are abundant in leaves. Signup and view all the answers

How do animals that eat leaves digest cellulose?

They cultivate microorganisms inside their guts that digest cellulose for them. Signup and view all the answers

What is the process called when grazers regurgitate food and bacteria back up into their mouths?

It is called 'chewing the cud'. Signup and view all the answers

Why do grazers spend a lot of time eating?

They can extract relatively little energy from each mouthful of leaves. Signup and view all the answers

What type of digestive system is needed to extract energy and nutrients from leaves?

A heavy digestive system. Signup and view all the answers

Which bird mentioned in the text eats leaves?

The hoatzin bird. Signup and view all the answers