In ecosystems, the correct statement is:
Energy flows in one direction and matter cycles through the environment.
Here's a brief explanation of each:
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Energy Flow: In an ecosystem, energy typically enters through sunlight, which is captured by producers (such as plants) during photosynthesis. This energy then moves through the food chain as organisms consume one another, eventually dissipating as heat and going out of the system.
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Matter Cycling: Matter, on the other hand, is recycled within the ecosystem. Elements such as carbon, nitrogen, and water are continuously cycled through various processes, including decomposition, respiration, and nutrient uptake by plants. Unlike energy, which is lost as heat at each trophic level, matter is reused within the ecosystem.
This distinction between the linear flow of energy and the cyclical flow of matter is fundamental to understanding ecosystem dynamics.