Unit 3 Review

Front

What are decomposers and what role do they play in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers are organisms that obtain nutrients by breaking down dead and decaying plants and animals. They play a crucial role in recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect and why is it important for life on Earth?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases trap heat in the atmosphere, preventing it from escaping into space. This effect is important because it helps maintain the Earth's temperature, making it suitable for life.

Front

Which type of organism typically has the smallest population size in an ecosystem?

Back

Top predators, such as eagles, typically have the smallest population size in an ecosystem due to their position in the food chain and the energy transfer inefficiencies.

Front

If producers have 100% of the energy available, how much energy is typically available to primary consumers?

Back

Typically, only about 10% of the energy from producers is available to primary consumers, such as frogs.

Front

How does an increase in carbon dioxide levels affect global temperatures?

Back

An increase in carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere is associated with an increase in global temperatures due to enhanced greenhouse effect.

Front

What is the role of producers in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers, such as plants, are organisms that convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.

Front

Define the term 'trophic level' in an ecosystem.

Back

A trophic level is a position in a food chain or food web, representing the flow of energy and nutrients from producers to various levels of consumers.

Front

What is the significance of energy transfer between trophic levels?

Back

Energy transfer between trophic levels is significant because it determines the structure and dynamics of ecosystems, influencing population sizes and species interactions.

Front

Explain the concept of bioaccumulation and its potential impact on ecosystems.

Back

Bioaccumulation refers to the accumulation of substances, such as toxins, in the tissues of living organisms. It can lead to harmful effects on health and biodiversity in ecosystems.

Front

What is the difference between a food chain and a food web?

Back

A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms through which nutrients and energy pass, while a food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem.