Assessment - Chapter 3: Ecosystems

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What is an ecosystem?

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An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) interacting with their physical environment (soil, water, and climate) in a specific area.

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What are primary producers?

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Primary producers are organisms that produce their own energy through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, such as plants and algae.

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What is the role of consumers in an ecosystem?

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Consumers are organisms that rely on other organisms for energy and nutrients. They can be herbivores, carnivores, or omnivores.

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What is the 10% rule in energy transfer?

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The 10% rule states that only about 10% of the energy from one trophic level is transferred to the next level in a food chain.

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How do human-caused disturbances affect ecosystems?

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Long-term human-caused disturbances can transform ecosystems in lasting ways, affecting biodiversity and ecosystem functions.

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What is photosynthesis?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll.

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What is respiration in the context of ecosystems?

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Respiration is the process by which organisms convert glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.

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What are decomposers?

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Decomposers are organisms, such as fungi and bacteria, that break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

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What is a trophic level?

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A trophic level is a position in a food chain or food web, defined by how an organism obtains its energy.

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What is the hydrosphere?

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The hydrosphere includes all the water on Earth, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and water vapor in the atmosphere.