Environmental Science Final 2024

Front

What is the primary source of energy for ecosystems?

Back

The primary source of energy for ecosystems is sunlight, which is converted into chemical energy by producers through photosynthesis.

Front

Define producers in an ecosystem.

Back

Producers are organisms, such as plants and algae, that can make their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.

Front

What are consumers in an ecosystem?

Back

Consumers are organisms that cannot produce their own food and rely on consuming other organisms (plants or animals) for energy.

Front

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and completing the nutrient cycle.

Front

Explain the concept of energy transfer in a food chain.

Back

Energy transfer in a food chain occurs when one organism eats another, moving energy from producers to consumers and eventually to decomposers.

Front

What is the difference between abiotic and biotic factors?

Back

Abiotic factors are non-living components of an ecosystem (e.g., water, soil, temperature), while biotic factors are living components (e.g., plants, animals).

Front

Define commensalism with an example.

Back

Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed. Example: Cattle egrets feeding on insects stirred up by cattle.

Front

What is mutualism?

Back

Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship where both organisms benefit. Example: Bees pollinating flowers while obtaining nectar.

Front

What is the significance of biofuels in reducing fossil fuel use?

Back

Biofuels, such as biodiesel and ethanol, are renewable energy sources that can decrease reliance on fossil fuels, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Front

Explain the concept of a food web.

Back

A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem, illustrating how energy and nutrients flow between different organisms.