Unit 5, EcoSystem Lesson 18

The diagram shows the water cycle. The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth's surface. It involves processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff. The diagram likely depicts these processes and their interconnectedness, illustrating how water is constantly cycling through the atmosphere, land, and oceans.

Consumers must eat to acquire the energy they need. Eating is the process by which organisms consume food, which provides them with the necessary nutrients and energy to sustain their bodily functions. This is a fundamental requirement for all living beings, including humans, as it allows them to convert food into usable energy through digestion and metabolism.

Producers, such as plants, carry out both photosynthesis and cellular respiration. Photosynthesis is the process by which they convert sunlight into chemical energy, while cellular respiration is the process by which they break down this energy to fuel their growth and metabolism. Therefore, it is true that producers carry out both photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

The statement is true because an ecosystem can indeed be an urban center or a forest. An ecosystem refers to a community of living organisms in conjunction with their non-living environment, and it can exist in various forms and locations. It can encompass both natural environments like forests and artificial environments like urban centers. Additionally, the statement mentions that the ecosystem can be encompassed into the biome description, which further supports the idea that an ecosystem can be found in different types of environments such as tundra, boreal forest, or temperate deciduous forest.

Producers, such as plants, use a process called photosynthesis to convert sunlight into energy. They have specialized structures called chloroplasts that contain chlorophyll, which absorbs sunlight. Through photosynthesis, producers convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into glucose (a form of energy) and oxygen. Therefore, it is true that a producer uses sunlight directly to produce the energy it needs.

The statement is true because primary consumers, such as herbivores, consume multiple individual producers to meet their energy and nutrient requirements. As a result, the amount of chemical found in a primary consumer is significantly higher than in the producer. This is due to the cumulative effect of ingesting multiple producers, leading to a greater concentration of chemicals in the primary consumer's body.

The explanation for the correct answer, "Greenhouse effect," is that the thin layer of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere acts like a greenhouse, trapping heat and preventing it from escaping into space. This phenomenon is known as the greenhouse effect.

A living community includes members of all kingdoms because a living community refers to a group of organisms that live and interact together in a specific area. The term "kingdoms" refers to the highest taxonomic rank in the biological classification system, which includes five main kingdoms: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, Protista, and Monera. Therefore, a living community would encompass organisms from all of these kingdoms, making the statement true.

Plants require nitrogen to grow, but they cannot directly use nitrogen gas from the atmosphere. They need nitrogen atoms to be separated and attached to a larger compound such as nitrate or oxygen atoms. These compounds are then absorbed by the plants' roots and used for various biological processes, including protein synthesis and growth. Therefore, the statement that nitrogen atoms must be separated and attached to a larger compound for plants to use nitrogen is true.

Producers are living organisms that have the ability to convert inorganic materials such as carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight into their own food through a process called photosynthesis. They are able to produce their own energy-rich organic compounds, which in turn serve as a source of food for other organisms in the ecosystem. This process is vital as it forms the basis of the food chain and provides energy for all other organisms in the ecosystem.

All of the options listed in the question belong in a non-living environment. Water and carbon dioxide are essential components for many non-living environments, such as oceans and the atmosphere. Light is a non-living factor that affects the environment, including the amount of light available for photosynthesis. Soil, although it consists of living organisms, is considered a non-living component of the environment. Temperature and wind are non-living factors that influence the conditions of a non-living environment. Therefore, all of the options provided are correct and belong in a non-living environment.

The picture illustrates a complex network of interconnected food chains, known as a food web. It includes various organisms such as snakes, birds, mice, and trees, which are all part of the ecosystem and interact with each other through the transfer of energy and nutrients. A food web is a more accurate representation of the feeding relationships in an ecosystem compared to a simple food chain, as it takes into account the multiple pathways and interactions between different organisms.

An ecosystem consists of two essential components: the living community and the non-living environment. The living community refers to all the organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, that interact with each other within a specific area. The non-living environment encompasses the physical factors such as air, water, soil, sunlight, and temperature that provide the necessary resources and conditions for the organisms to survive and thrive. Both components are interconnected and influence each other in various ways, forming a balanced and dynamic ecosystem.

Parasitism is a symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits while the other is harmed. In this relationship, the parasite benefits by obtaining nutrients or shelter from the host, while the host is negatively affected. This type of relationship is often seen in nature, such as with ticks feeding on the blood of animals or fleas infesting a dog's fur. The parasite relies on the host for survival and reproduction, while the host suffers from the presence of the parasite.

Grass and corn are considered producers because they are able to produce their own food through photosynthesis. They convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose, which they use as energy to grow and survive. Dogs, on the other hand, are consumers as they obtain their energy by consuming other organisms.

The correct answer is "An ecosystem includes all the interactions between living organisms and their environment in that area." This statement best defines an ecosystem because it emphasizes the dynamic relationship between living organisms and their surroundings. It acknowledges that interactions between organisms and their environment are essential components of an ecosystem. It highlights the interconnectedness and interdependence of different species and their physical surroundings in a given area.

The ultimate source of energy for all food chains is the Sun. Through the process of photosynthesis, plants convert sunlight into chemical energy, which is then passed on to other organisms in the food chain. This energy is essential for the growth and survival of all living organisms, as it fuels their metabolic processes and allows them to carry out their daily activities. Without the Sun's energy, food chains would not exist, and life on Earth would not be possible.

Cellular respiration is the process by which organic matter is broken down in cells to produce energy. It involves the conversion of glucose and oxygen into carbon dioxide, water, and ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy currency of cells. This process occurs in the mitochondria and is essential for the survival and functioning of all living organisms. Cellular perspiration and cellular phone are not valid terms related to this process.

Excretion from living things and denitrifying bacteria are the processes that return nitrogen back to the environment. Excretion involves the elimination of waste nitrogen compounds, such as urea, in urine or feces, which eventually decompose and release ammonia into the environment. Denitrifying bacteria convert nitrates, which are present in soil or water, into gaseous nitrogen, releasing it back into the atmosphere. Therefore, both processes contribute to the nitrogen cycle and the recycling of nitrogen in the environment.

Consumers are organisms that feed on other living organisms. They can be categorized into three types: herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores. Herbivores consume only plants, carnivores consume only other animals, and omnivores consume both plants and animals. This definition accurately describes consumers and their various feeding habits.

Mutualism is a type of relationship that benefits both organisms involved in a community. In mutualism, both organisms rely on each other for resources or services, resulting in a mutually beneficial outcome. This type of relationship is characterized by cooperation and interdependence, where both organisms gain advantages such as food, protection, or reproduction. Mutualism is essential for maintaining the balance and stability of ecosystems, as it promotes the survival and well-being of the organisms involved.

Ecology is the correct answer because it is the branch of biology that specifically focuses on the study of relationships between organisms and their environment or habitat. It examines how organisms interact with each other and with their physical surroundings, including the biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors. Ecology plays a crucial role in understanding the balance and dynamics of ecosystems, as well as the impact of human activities on the environment.

When coal is burned for energy, it releases inorganic dioxide into the atmosphere. This is because coal is a fossil fuel made up of carbon, and when it is burned, the carbon combines with oxygen to form carbon dioxide. Additionally, when producers and consumers die, their bodies decompose, and inorganic carbon dioxide is released back into the atmosphere. This occurs because living organisms, including plants and animals, contain carbon in their bodies, and when they decompose, the carbon is released as carbon dioxide. Therefore, both statements A and B are correct in explaining how carbon returns into the atmosphere.

A food web gives a clearer picture of the inter-relationships among living species and how energy flows in an ecosystem. Unlike a food chain, which only shows a linear sequence of feeding relationships, a food web is a more complex representation that includes multiple interconnected food chains within an ecosystem. It shows the various feeding connections between different organisms, including producers, consumers, and decomposers, and how energy is transferred between them. This comprehensive view allows for a better understanding of the dynamics and stability of an ecosystem.

The given answer, "All of the above," is correct because all of the statements given are true about the Nitrogen Cycle. Nitrogen is indeed an essential part of many key organic molecules such as proteins and nucleic acids. Additionally, nitrogen molecules are the most abundant gas in Earth's atmosphere. Therefore, all of the statements are true.

Commensalism is a non-competitive type of relationship between organisms where one organism benefits while the other is unaffected. In this relationship, the organism that benefits receives some sort of advantage, such as shelter or transportation, while the other organism is neither harmed nor benefited. This type of relationship is different from mutualism, where both organisms benefit, and parasitism, where one organism benefits at the expense of the other. Symbiotic is a term that refers to any type of close and long-term interaction between different species, which can include mutualism, commensalism, or parasitism.

Decomposers are living organisms whose ecological niche is to decompose organic matter. They play a crucial role in breaking down dead plants and animals, releasing nutrients and raw materials back into the environment. This process helps in recycling nutrients and maintaining the balance of ecosystems. Both statement B and C accurately describe the role and function of decomposers in the environment.

Symbiotic is the correct answer because it refers to the long-term relationships between species where they live together. Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both species benefit from each other. Friendship is a general term for a close relationship between individuals, not specifically between different species. BSFF (Best Species Friends Forever) is not a recognized term and does not provide a meaningful explanation for the concept.

Phosphorus is the correct answer because it is an essential element in the production of phospholipids, which are a major component of cell membranes. Phosphorus is also a key component in energy molecules such as ATP, which is used by cells for various metabolic processes. Additionally, phosphorus is a crucial component of nucleic acids, including DNA and RNA, which are responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information in living organisms. Therefore, phosphorus plays a vital role in the production of phospholipids, energy molecules, and nucleic acids, making it the correct answer.

Producers, such as plants, use water, carbon dioxide, and light energy to undergo the process of photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, plants convert these raw materials into organic compounds, such as glucose, which they use as a source of energy for growth and development. Therefore, the statement is true.

A pyramid of energy shows the decrease in available energy at successive trophic levels by grouping together all available producers, all herbivores, and so on. This means that as energy is transferred from one trophic level to another, there is a decrease in the amount of energy available. This is because energy is lost as heat, used for metabolic processes, or stored as biomass. The pyramid visually represents this energy transfer and provides a clear understanding of the flow of energy in an ecosystem.

Phosphorus returns to the environment through waste products from living organisms and the decomposition of matter, as well as through erosion and weathering that move phosphorus into streams and rivers. This means that both options A and B are correct.

The food chain shows the flow of energy through the trophic levels in an ecosystem. This means that it demonstrates how energy is transferred from one organism to another as they consume each other. The organisms at the bottom of the food chain, such as plants or algae, convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis. This energy is then passed on to herbivores that eat the plants, and then to carnivores that eat the herbivores. The food chain helps to illustrate the interconnectedness and dependence of different organisms in an ecosystem on each other for energy.

The diagram is called the Pyramid of Energy because it represents the flow of energy through different trophic levels in an ecosystem. It shows the decreasing amount of energy available at each higher level, with producers at the bottom, followed by primary consumers, secondary consumers, and so on. This pyramid helps to illustrate the energy transfer and efficiency within an ecosystem, highlighting the importance of producers in capturing and converting sunlight energy into chemical energy.

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Consumers are organisms that consume and digest the products of photosynthesis, such as plants or other organisms. They obtain energy by breaking down these products through cellular respiration. Unlike producers, which are able to produce their own food through photosynthesis, consumers rely on consuming other organisms for their energy needs. Decomposers, on the other hand, break down dead organic matter and parasites rely on living organisms for their survival.

Trophic levels refer to the different food levels in a living community. This concept describes the hierarchy of energy transfer in an ecosystem, where each level represents a different group of organisms that obtain energy from the level below. The lowest level consists of primary producers (plants), followed by primary consumers (herbivores), secondary consumers (carnivores), and so on. Each level depends on the one below it for energy, and energy transfer becomes less efficient as it moves up the trophic pyramid.

Commensalism is the correct answer because it refers to a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits while the other organism is neither harmed nor benefited. In the case of clown fish and anemones, the clown fish benefits by finding protection and shelter within the anemone, while the anemone is unaffected by the presence of the clown fish.

Phosphorus is primarily stored in Earth's crust. It is a vital element for life and is found in various minerals in the Earth's crust, such as phosphate rocks. These rocks contain phosphorus in the form of phosphates, which are essential for the growth and development of plants and animals. Phosphorus is released from these rocks through weathering and erosion processes, making it available for biological processes. Therefore, the majority of phosphorus is stored in Earth's crust.

First-order consumers are organisms that directly consume producers, such as plants, to obtain energy. Since producers are usually less abundant compared to the lower trophic levels, first-order consumers have to eat a larger quantity of producers to meet their energy demands. This is why there are fewer first-order consumers compared to other trophic levels. Additionally, first-order consumers may also be hunted by predators, further reducing their population size. Therefore, the correct answer is that these consumers must eat many of the producers to get sufficient energy to survive.

Carbon is the key element in all organic life forms because it has the unique ability to form stable covalent bonds with other carbon atoms, as well as with other elements. This allows for the formation of complex and diverse organic compounds, which are essential for the structure and functioning of living things. Oxygen and water are also important for life, but carbon is the fundamental building block that forms the backbone of organic molecules. Therefore, the correct answer is carbon.

Nitrogen can be fixed in the atmosphere through three ways: nitrogen-fixing bacteria, the action of lightning, and industrial processes. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use. Lightning provides the energy needed to convert nitrogen gas into nitrogen compounds that can be used by plants. Industrial processes, such as the production of fertilizers, also fix nitrogen by converting it into forms that can be readily utilized by plants. Therefore, the correct answer is that nitrogen is fixed in the atmosphere through the action of nitrogen-fixing bacteria and lightning and industrial processes.