Matter and Energy in Ecosystems Chapter 3

Front

What is matter?

Back

Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space.

Front

What is energy in the context of ecosystems?

Back

Energy in ecosystems refers to the ability to do work, often derived from sunlight and transferred through food chains.

Front

What is a decomposer?

Back

A decomposer is an organism that breaks down dead matter, returning nutrients to the soil.

Front

What role do producers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers are organisms that create their own food through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

Back

The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon atoms move through the atmosphere, land, and living organisms.

Front

How do fossil fuels form?

Back

Fossil fuels form from dead matter that has been buried underground for millions of years, undergoing heat and pressure.

Front

What is the significance of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem, making them available for producers.

Front

What happens to carbon atoms in an ecosystem over time?

Back

The total number of carbon atoms remains constant in a closed system, as they are recycled through various processes.

Front

What is a primary consumer?

Back

A primary consumer is an organism that eats producers, typically herbivores.

Front

What is a secondary consumer?

Back

A secondary consumer is an organism that eats primary consumers, often carnivores.