how do energy and matter move in the ecosystem

Answer 1

Matter flows in one direction, and energy flows through the environment

Answer 2

in a continuous cycle. In the ecosystem, energy flows from the Sun and is transferred through the food chain to organisms. This energy is used for growth, reproduction, and other metabolic processes. Organisms also consume other organisms for food, and in doing so, they transfer matter through the ecosystem. This matter comprises the nutrients required for growth and other physiological processes. Substances like carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and water are exchanged among the living and non-living components of the ecosystem, sustaining life and maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. Ultimately, when organisms die or excrete, the matter they carry is returned to the soil or water, where it is picked up by other organisms and the cycle repeats. Therefore, energy flows in a unidirectional path while matter is recycled through the ecosystem.

Answer 3

In a food pyramid, there is typically less biomass at the top (i.e., there are very few individual tertiary consumers, whereas there are numerous individual producers). In three to five sentences, explain this phenomenon, citing evidence relating to energy flow and how plants support ecosystems.(4 points)

Answer 4

The phenomenon of less biomass at the top of the food pyramid is due to the relatively low efficiency of energy transfer between trophic levels. As organisms consume other organisms, only a portion of the energy is passed on to the next level. Some of it is lost as heat or used in metabolic processes. Therefore, there is less energy available to support the growth and reproduction of tertiary consumers. This is supported by studies on energy flow through ecosystems, which have shown that only a fraction of the energy available at each trophic level is passed on to the next. Additionally, the ample biomass at the base of the pyramid is a result of the ability of plants to capture and convert energy from the Sun into organic matter through photosynthesis. This provides a consistent source of energy that supports the growth of all other organisms in the ecosystem.

Answer 5

Ocean ecosystems are sensitive to the chemical composition of the water. Any excess compounds can upset the balance and cause damage to organisms. In three to five sentences, describe how reducing consumption of fossil fuels can help the ocean ecosystem. (4 points)

Answer 6

Reducing consumption of fossil fuels can help the ocean ecosystem by decreasing the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere, which in turn reduces the rate at which it is absorbed by the ocean. The absorption of excess carbon dioxide causes ocean acidification, which lowers the pH of the water and makes it more acidic. This can have harmful effects on many marine organisms, such as shell-forming organisms, plankton, and fish larvae. By reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, we can slow down the rate of ocean acidification and lessen the impact it has on marine ecosystems. Additionally, reducing consumption of fossil fuels can decrease the amount of other harmful compounds, such as heavy metals and particulate matter, that are released into the ocean through runoff and atmospheric deposition.

Answer 7

Which statement is true?(1 point)
Responses

Food webs are the best depictions of feeding relationships because they show a single path for the flow of energy through an ecosystem.
Food webs are the best depictions of feeding relationships because they show a single path for the flow of energy through an ecosystem.

Food chains are the best depictions of feeding relationships because they show a simplified path for the flow of energy through an ecosystem.
Food chains are the best depictions of feeding relationships because they show a simplified path for the flow of energy through an ecosystem.

Food webs are the best depictions of feeding relationships because they show many ways that plants and animals are connected.
Food webs are the best depictions of feeding relationships because they show many ways that plants and animals are connected.

Food chains are the best depictions of feeding relationships because they show many ways that plants and animals are connected.

Answer 8

Food webs are the best depictions of feeding relationships because they show many ways that plants and animals are connected.