How do energy and matter move in ecosystems? (1 point)

Question

• Energy and matter flow in one direction.
• Matter flows in one direction, and energy cycles through the environment.
• Energy and matter cycle through the environment.
• Energy flows in one direction, and matter cycles through the environment.

Answer 1

The correct statement is: Energy flows in one direction, and matter cycles through the environment.

In ecosystems, energy from the sun is captured by producers (like plants) and flows through the food chain as it is consumed by various organisms, ultimately dissipating as heat. In contrast, matter (such as nutrients) is recycled through biogeochemical cycles, moving between living organisms and the environment.