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Multiple Choice
What is the term for each step in the transfer of energy and matter within a food web?
A
Biomass
B
Ecological niche
C
Population
D
Trophic level
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of a food web: A food web represents the interconnected feeding relationships within an ecosystem, showing how energy and matter flow between organisms.
Learn the definition of 'trophic level': A trophic level refers to each step in the transfer of energy and matter within a food web, categorizing organisms based on their feeding position (e.g., producers, primary consumers, secondary consumers, etc.).
Differentiate between the given terms: Biomass refers to the total mass of living organisms in a given area, ecological niche describes the role and position of an organism in its environment, and population refers to a group of individuals of the same species living in a specific area.
Recognize that 'trophic level' is the correct term because it specifically describes the hierarchical steps in energy transfer within a food web.
Apply this understanding to analyze food webs: Identify the trophic levels (producers, herbivores, carnivores, etc.) and trace the flow of energy and matter through the ecosystem.