Energy Flow in Ecosystems

Mr. Anderson explains energy flow in ecosystems, highlighting the sun as the primary energy source. He discusses photosynthesis and chemosynthesis, detailing how energy is converted and used by producers and consumers. The video covers productivity, trophic levels, and energy loss, emphasizing the importance of ecological pyramids in measuring energy efficiency and biomass. Key concepts include the role of photosynthesis, energy transfer efficiency, and the significance of ecological models in understanding energy dynamics.

What is the primary source of energy for ecosystems on Earth?

• The Moon

• The Sun

• Volcanic Activity

• Ocean Currents

Which process allows plants to convert sunlight into usable energy?

• Chemosynthesis

• Photosynthesis

• Fermentation

• Cellular Respiration

What is the difference between gross and net primary productivity?

• Net includes respiration, gross does not

• Gross includes respiration, net does not

• Gross is always higher than net

• Net is always higher than gross

How do chemosynthetic bacteria produce glucose?

• Using sunlight

• Using chemical energy

• Using geothermal energy

• Using wind energy

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

• 50%

• 20%

• 10%

• 5%

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

• They increase energy efficiency

• They recycle nutrients

• They consume primary producers

• They produce energy

How is biomass different from productivity?

• Biomass includes non-living material, productivity does not

• Productivity is measured over time, biomass is not

• Productivity includes non-living material, biomass does not

• Biomass is measured over time, productivity is not