4.1.2. ENERGY FLOW IN AN ECOSYSTEM

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the first source of energy in an ecosystem?

   Hint

   Think about where plants get their energy.

2. 2.

   What do we call organisms that produce their own food?

   Hint

   These include plants and some bacteria.

3. 3.

   What is the primary source of energy for biological activities on Earth?

   • The Moon
   • The Sun
   • Geothermal Energy

   Hint

   Consider where plants obtain their energy.

4. 4.

   True or False: Energy flow in an ecosystem is cyclic.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about the direction energy travels through the ecosystem.

5. 5.

   In a given ecosystem, the primary producers capture 1000 J of solar energy. If each trophic level loses 90% of energy, calculate the energy available to secondary consumers.

   Hint

   Use the percentage to determine the energy retained at each level.

6. 6.

   Critically analyze how energy flow models can impact our understanding of ecological conservation efforts.

   Hint

   Consider how energy prediction can guide conservation strategies.