Matter and Energy

Front

What is an energy pyramid?

Back

An energy pyramid is a graphical representation that shows the flow of energy through different trophic levels in an ecosystem, illustrating how energy decreases as it moves from producers to higher-level consumers.

Front

What percentage of energy is typically transferred from one trophic level to the next?

Back

About 10% of energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next in an energy pyramid.

Front

What happens to energy as it moves up the energy pyramid?

Back

Energy decreases from the bottom to the top of the energy pyramid because some energy is used for life processes at each level.

Front

What is the primary source of energy for producers in an ecosystem?

Back

The primary source of energy for producers is solar energy, which they use in photosynthesis.

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, producing glucose and oxygen from carbon dioxide and water.

Front

What is the difference between the flow of energy and the cycling of matter in an ecosystem?

Back

Energy flows in one direction through an ecosystem, while matter cycles through different forms and organisms.

Front

Which organisms are known as primary producers?

Back

Primary producers are typically plants and algae that produce their own food through photosynthesis.

Front

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

Back

The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged among the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms, involving processes like photosynthesis, respiration, and decomposition.

Front

How does respiration contribute to the carbon cycle?

Back

Respiration by living organisms releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere, which can then be used by plants for photosynthesis.