Multiple Choice
In the context of energy flow through ecosystems, what do food webs show about an ecosystem?
3
views
52. Ecosystems
Energy Flow Through Ecosystems
Struggling with General Biology?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
In the context of energy flow through ecosystems, which statement best describes how decomposers interact with their ecosystem?
A
They primarily increase energy available to higher trophic levels by producing new biomass from inorganic carbon without consuming other organisms.
B
They break down dead organisms and waste, converting organic matter into simpler substances and releasing nutrients that can be reused by producers.
C
They capture sunlight and convert it into chemical energy stored in sugars through photosynthesis.
D
They function only as predators that control herbivore populations by feeding on living animals.
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the role of decomposers in an ecosystem by understanding their position in the energy flow and nutrient cycles.
Recall that decomposers break down dead organisms and organic waste, which involves converting complex organic materials into simpler substances.
Recognize that this breakdown process releases nutrients back into the environment, making them available for producers (such as plants) to reuse.
Understand that decomposers do not produce new biomass from inorganic carbon like producers do, nor do they capture sunlight or act primarily as predators.
Conclude that the best description of decomposers is that they recycle nutrients by breaking down dead matter and waste, supporting the ecosystem's nutrient availability.
5:28mWatch next
Master Gross Productive Energy vs. Assimilated Energy with a bite sized video explanation from Jason
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Energy Flow Through Ecosystems practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations