Multiple Choice
In the context of energy flow through ecosystems, why are producers an essential component of an ecosystem?
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52. Ecosystems
Energy Flow Through Ecosystems
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In the context of energy flow through ecosystems, which description best defines producers?
A
Organisms that recycle nutrients by decomposing dead organic matter into inorganic forms
B
Organisms (autotrophs) that capture energy (e.g., sunlight or chemical energy) to build organic molecules from inorganic substances
C
Nonliving components of an ecosystem that store energy, such as rocks and water
D
Organisms that obtain energy by consuming other organisms and breaking down organic molecules
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of producers in an ecosystem: Producers are organisms that can create their own food using energy from nonliving sources.
Recall that producers are also called autotrophs because they synthesize organic molecules from inorganic substances.
Recognize that producers capture energy from sunlight (photosynthesis) or chemical energy (chemosynthesis) to build organic compounds.
Differentiate producers from decomposers, consumers, and nonliving components by their unique ability to convert inorganic materials into organic matter.
Conclude that the best description of producers is organisms (autotrophs) that capture energy to build organic molecules from inorganic substances.
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