EcoSystems And Biomes Exam- 8th Grade Ngss

The sun is indeed the source of energy on Earth. It provides heat and light through a process called nuclear fusion, where hydrogen atoms combine to form helium and release a tremendous amount of energy. This energy is then radiated as sunlight and reaches the Earth, where it is essential for various biological processes such as photosynthesis in plants and the regulation of temperature. Without the sun, life on Earth would not be possible as it is the primary source of energy for all living organisms.

Mushrooms and other fungi play a crucial role in the ecosystem by breaking down dead organic matter. They obtain nutrients by decomposing dead plants and animals, which helps in the recycling of essential nutrients back into the soil. This process of decomposition is vital for the overall health and balance of the ecosystem. Therefore, mushrooms and other fungi are referred to as decomposers.

In an energy pyramid, energy transfers from the bottom of the pyramid to the top. This is because the primary producers, such as plants, capture energy from the sun through photosynthesis and convert it into chemical energy. This energy is then transferred to the primary consumers, such as herbivores, when they consume the plants. The energy continues to flow up the pyramid as it is transferred from one trophic level to the next, with each level consuming the level below it. Therefore, the correct answer is "From the bottom of the pyramid to the top."

A carnivore is an animal that only eats the flesh of other animals. This means that it primarily consumes meat and does not eat plants or other sources of food. Examples of carnivores include lions, tigers, and wolves. They have adaptations such as sharp teeth and claws to help them catch and kill their prey. In contrast, a producer refers to an organism that produces its own food through photosynthesis, such as plants. A herbivore eats only plants, while an omnivore consumes both plants and animals. Therefore, the correct answer is carnivore.

Algae is an autotroph because it can produce its own food through photosynthesis. Autotrophs are organisms that can convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into energy-rich organic compounds. Algae have chloroplasts that contain chlorophyll, which enables them to capture sunlight and convert it into energy. In contrast, bears, cheetahs, and fish are heterotrophs that rely on consuming other organisms for their energy and nutrients.

Climate is the average weather in an area over a long period of time. It represents the long-term patterns and trends of temperature, precipitation, humidity, wind, and other atmospheric conditions in a specific region. Climate is different from weather, which refers to the short-term and day-to-day variations in atmospheric conditions. The study of climate helps scientists understand and predict weather patterns, as well as analyze the impact of human activities on the Earth's climate system.

Plants are the major producers in terrestrial biomes because they are capable of photosynthesis, a process in which they convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen. This ability allows them to produce their own food and energy, making them the primary source of energy for other organisms in the ecosystem. Mice, birds, and rabbits are consumers in the food chain, relying on plants for their survival.

Biotic resources refer to living organisms, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms, that are utilized by humans for various purposes. On the other hand, abiotic resources are nonliving elements like air, water, minerals, and sunlight that are also essential for human survival and development. The given answer correctly states that biotic resources are living, while abiotic resources are nonliving. This distinction is crucial as it helps us understand the different ways in which these resources are utilized, managed, and conserved for sustainable development.

The statement suggests that the proximity of an area to the ocean and mountain ranges can affect the amount of precipitation it receives. This is because the ocean is a major source of moisture through evaporation, and mountains can cause air to rise and cool, leading to condensation and precipitation. Therefore, it is true that nearness to the ocean and mountain ranges can influence the amount of precipitation in an area.

In an energy pyramid, the bottom level represents producers. Producers are organisms, such as plants, that are capable of converting sunlight into energy through the process of photosynthesis. They are the primary source of energy in an ecosystem as they produce food for themselves and other organisms. The energy produced by producers is then transferred to the higher levels of the pyramid, which represent consumers, decomposers, and scavengers. Therefore, the bottom level of the energy pyramid is occupied by producers.

Precipitation, such as rain or snow, adds moisture to the climate. When it rains or snows, water is added to the atmosphere and the ground, increasing the overall moisture content. This moisture is important for the growth of plants, the replenishment of water sources, and the overall balance of ecosystems. Therefore, the statement that precipitation increases moisture in a climate is true.

The snake is the secondary consumer in this food chain because it feeds on the primary consumer, which is the rabbit. Secondary consumers are organisms that consume other consumers in the food chain. In this case, the snake consumes the rabbit, which consumes the grass.

An energy pyramid is a visual representation that illustrates the amount of energy available at each trophic level in an ecosystem. It shows that energy decreases as it moves up the food chain, with the most energy being available at the producer level and progressively less energy available at each subsequent level. This helps to demonstrate the importance of primary producers in sustaining the energy flow within an ecosystem and the limited energy available to higher-level consumers.

The correct answer is "The Giant Sea Bass is a predator of the Sheephead." This means that the Giant Sea Bass hunts and feeds on the Sheephead. In a food chain or ecosystem pyramid, predators are usually higher up and feed on the organisms below them in the pyramid. In this case, the Giant Sea Bass is positioned higher than the Sheephead, indicating that it preys on the Sheephead.

In a food chain, energy is transferred from one organism to another through the consumption of food. However, this transfer of energy is not efficient, and a significant amount of energy is lost as heat during each transfer. On average, only about 10% of the energy from one trophic level is passed on to the next level. This is due to factors such as metabolism, respiration, and incomplete digestion. Therefore, the correct answer is 10%.

As one progresses from level D to level A in this pyramid, the amount of stored energy decreases. This is because energy is lost as it moves up the food chain. At each level, organisms use some of the energy they consume for their own metabolic processes, and the remaining energy is passed on to the next level. This means that there is less energy available at higher levels of the pyramid compared to lower levels. Therefore, as we move up from level D to level A, the amount of stored energy decreases.

An abiotic factor is a non-living component that influences an ecosystem. In this case, the correct answer is rock because it is an inanimate object and does not possess any biological characteristics. Rocks can affect the ecosystem by providing habitat, acting as a substrate for plants, influencing water flow, and affecting the availability of nutrients.

The sun is the ultimate source of energy for all organisms in life. Through the process of photosynthesis, plants convert sunlight into chemical energy in the form of glucose, which is then consumed by other organisms. This energy is transferred through the food chain, allowing organisms to perform essential life functions and sustain their metabolism. Without the sun's energy, life on Earth would not be possible.

Water near the bottom of lakes and oceans may contain more nutrients than water closer to the surface because nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus tend to sink to the bottom due to gravity and the process of settling. This is known as nutrient stratification. Additionally, organic matter and decaying organisms also sink to the bottom, contributing to the higher nutrient concentration. This nutrient-rich water at the bottom supports the growth of benthic organisms and serves as a source of nutrients for the entire aquatic ecosystem.

A species that feeds on the tissue of its host without directly killing it is called a parasite. Parasites rely on the host for their survival and often harm or weaken the host in the process. Unlike predators, parasites do not necessarily kill their host, but they still benefit from the resources obtained from the host. Therefore, the correct answer is parasite.

If a farmer introduces a rat poison into the ecosystem that is toxic to rats and mice, it would lead to a decrease in the population of rats and mice. Since foxes primarily feed on rats and mice, a decrease in their population would result in a decrease in the population of foxes. Therefore, the correct answer is that the population of foxes would decrease.

Birds would occupy pyramid level B. This is because birds are secondary consumers, meaning they eat primary consumers (insects) that feed on corn. In a pyramid of energy or biomass, each level represents a different trophic level, with producers at the bottom, followed by primary consumers, secondary consumers, and so on. Therefore, birds, as secondary consumers, would be placed at pyramid level B.

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Organisms that use the sun's energy directly to make their own food are known as autotrophs. They are able to convert sunlight into chemical energy through the process of photosynthesis. These autotrophs, such as plants and algae, form the first trophic level in a food chain or food web. They are also known as producers since they produce their own food and serve as a source of energy for other organisms in the ecosystem.

Freshwater biomes are characterized by the absence or low concentration of salt in the water. Unlike saltwater biomes such as oceans and seas, freshwater biomes include lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds that have water with very little or no salt content. This lack of salt makes freshwater biomes suitable for various organisms that cannot tolerate high salinity levels. These biomes support a diverse range of plants, animals, and microorganisms that have adapted to thrive in freshwater environments.

Burning fossil fuels is not a way to protect the biosphere because it releases harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change and air pollution. On the other hand, recycling helps reduce waste and conserve resources, protecting the environment. Protecting waterways from illegal chemical dumping prevents contamination and maintains the health of aquatic ecosystems. Decreasing deforestation helps preserve biodiversity and maintain the balance of ecosystems.

The energy pyramid shows the flow of energy in an ecosystem, with each level consuming a portion of the energy from the level below. In this case, if the producers have 7000 kcal of energy, the Sheephead fish, being a primary consumer, will only receive a fraction of that energy. This is because only about 10% of the energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next. Therefore, the Sheephead fish will have approximately 700 kcal of energy available to them, which is closest to the answer of 70 kcal.

The main source of excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere leading to the destruction of the ozone layer is carbon gas released into the atmosphere from factories and cars. This is because factories and cars emit large amounts of carbon dioxide as a byproduct of burning fossil fuels. This carbon dioxide then accumulates in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and climate change. The destruction of the ozone layer is caused by other substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), not carbon dioxide.

A heterotroph is an organism that obtains its energy and nutrients by consuming other organisms. In this case, a rabbit is a perfect example of a heterotroph as it relies on consuming plants or other animals for its survival. Grass, wheat, and seaweed, on the other hand, are examples of autotrophs, which can produce their own energy through photosynthesis.

The correct sequence from most to least inclusive is ecosystem, community, population, individual. This is because an ecosystem consists of all the living organisms (community) and their physical environment. Within a community, there are multiple populations of different species. And within a population, there are individual organisms. So, the ecosystem includes all the components, while the individual is the smallest unit of organization.

Producers represent the largest amount of organisms in the food pyramid. Producers, such as plants, are able to convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis. They are at the bottom of the food pyramid and form the base of the ecosystem. Primary consumers, secondary consumers, and tertiary consumers rely on producers for their energy and nutrients. As energy is transferred up the food pyramid, the number of organisms decreases, making producers the level with the largest amount of organisms.

A group of similar ecosystems with the same general abiotic factors and primary producers is called a biome. Biomes are large-scale communities characterized by specific climate conditions, such as temperature and precipitation, which determine the types of organisms that can thrive there. They can include various types of ecosystems, such as deserts, forests, grasslands, and tundras, which share similar characteristics and support similar types of plant and animal life. Biomes are important for understanding and studying the distribution and interactions of organisms on a global scale.

Energy cannot be recycled because it is not a physical substance that can be broken down and reprocessed like materials such as nitrogen, carbon, and water. Energy is a property or a capacity to do work, and it can be converted from one form to another, but it cannot be created or destroyed. Therefore, it cannot be recycled in the same way as physical materials.

Ecology is the study of relationships and interactions between organisms and their environment. It focuses on understanding how organisms interact with each other and their surroundings, including other organisms, the physical environment, and the resources available. This field of study explores the interdependence and interconnectedness of different species, as well as the impact of these relationships on the overall ecosystem. By studying ecology, scientists can gain insights into the balance and functioning of ecosystems and how they can be conserved and managed effectively.

The snake is classified as a tertiary consumer because it is at the top of the food chain and feeds on secondary consumers, such as mice or frogs. Tertiary consumers are organisms that obtain energy by consuming other consumers, making them higher up in the food chain.

Sea urchins use much of their energy for life processes. This statement best describes the reason why Giant Sea Bass do not get as much energy from eating the same amount of food as sea urchins. This means that a significant amount of energy obtained from food by sea urchins is utilized for their basic life functions, such as growth, reproduction, and maintenance, leaving less energy available for other activities like growth and movement.

Aquatic biomes are types of ecosystems that are primarily found in water, such as oceans, lakes, rivers, and wetlands. These biomes are limited by the availability of sunlight and the concentration of dissolved nutrients in the water. Sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis, which is the process by which plants and algae produce energy. Therefore, the amount of sunlight available in aquatic biomes directly affects the productivity and diversity of organisms. Additionally, the concentration of dissolved nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, is essential for the growth and survival of aquatic organisms. The correct answer, "aquatic," accurately reflects the biomes that are limited by these factors.

The relationship between sea anemones and clownfish is an example of commensalism. In this relationship, the clownfish benefits by being protected from predators while living among the sea anemone's tentacles. The sea anemone is not harmed nor does it benefit from the presence of the clownfish. Therefore, it is considered a commensal relationship.

Terrestrial biomes, which refer to the different types of ecosystems found on land, are primarily determined by climate. Climate, including factors such as temperature, precipitation, and sunlight, plays a crucial role in shaping the characteristics and distribution of different biomes. It influences the types of plants and animals that can survive in a particular area, as well as the overall ecosystem dynamics. For example, tropical rainforests thrive in hot and humid climates, while deserts are found in arid regions with low precipitation. Therefore, climate is the main factor that determines the characteristics and boundaries of terrestrial biomes.

Matter is recycled because it can neither be created nor destroyed, but can only change form through physical or chemical processes. Energy, on the other hand, is not recycled because it can be converted from one form to another, but it cannot be created or destroyed. Energy is constantly being transferred and transformed, but it is not recycled in the sense that it does not return to its original form.

The correct answer is Arctic and Alpine. The tundra is a type of biome characterized by extremely cold temperatures and low-growing vegetation. The Arctic tundra is found in the northernmost regions of the Earth, including parts of Alaska and Canada. It is located around the Arctic Circle and experiences long, cold winters and short summers. The Alpine tundra, on the other hand, is found in high mountain regions around the world, including the Alps, Rockies, and Himalayas. It is characterized by similar cold temperatures and low-growing vegetation, but it is found at high elevations rather than high latitudes.

A wetland is an area that is saturated with water or covered by water for at least one season of the year. It is characterized by its unique soil types and vegetation, which are adapted to the wet conditions. Wetlands play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, acting as habitats for various plant and animal species. They also provide important ecosystem services such as water purification, flood control, and carbon storage. Due to their ecological significance, wetlands are protected and conserved in many countries to ensure their preservation and sustainable use.

Latitude is the angular distance of a location from the equator. It plays a significant role in determining the temperature of a place. As latitude increases, the distance from the equator also increases, resulting in cooler temperatures. This is because the sun's rays are spread over a larger area, leading to less heat reaching the surface. Conversely, as latitude decreases, the distance from the equator decreases, resulting in warmer temperatures. Therefore, latitude is a key factor in major temperature changes across different regions.

Land near the ocean tends to have cooler summers and warmer winters because of the moderating effect of the water. During the summer, the ocean water is cooler than the land, which results in cooler air temperatures near the coast. In winter, the ocean retains heat better than land, so the air near the coast is warmer compared to inland areas. This phenomenon is known as the maritime effect and is caused by the ocean's ability to absorb and release heat more slowly than land.

Evaporation actually decreases the moisture in a climate. When water evaporates, it turns into vapor and leaves the atmosphere, reducing the amount of moisture present. This can lead to drier conditions in the climate.

Energy is the most important product in respiration because it is the fuel that powers all cellular activities. During respiration, glucose is broken down in the presence of oxygen to produce energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). This energy is then used by cells for various processes such as muscle contraction, synthesis of molecules, and active transport. Without energy, cells would not be able to function properly, leading to a breakdown of essential processes and ultimately cell death.

Green plants undergo photosynthesis to make their own food by converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Sunlight is essential for this process as it provides the energy needed for photosynthesis to occur. Oxygen is also produced as a byproduct of photosynthesis. Therefore, the correct answer is "sunlight, oxygen" as both are required for photosynthesis to take place.

Freshwater and producers can slow down runoff and help prevent erosion by their combined actions. Freshwater bodies such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands act as natural buffers, absorbing and storing excess rainfall. This reduces the volume and speed of runoff, preventing it from eroding the surrounding land. Producers, such as plants and algae, play a crucial role in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion. Their roots hold the soil in place, while their above-ground biomass acts as a physical barrier against the force of flowing water. Together, freshwater and producers work to protect the land from erosion caused by runoff.