Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
What is the primary difference between a food web and a food chain?
A
A food chain includes decomposers, while a food web does not.
B
A food chain shows a linear sequence of energy flow, while a food web shows interconnected food chains.
C
A food chain represents all organisms in an ecosystem, while a food web represents only producers and consumers.
D
A food web is limited to a single ecosystem, while a food chain spans multiple ecosystems.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the concept of a food chain. A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms where each organism is eaten by the next one in the chain. It represents a direct line of energy flow from one organism to another.
Next, explore the concept of a food web. A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains within an ecosystem. It illustrates how different food chains are linked together, showing the multiple pathways through which energy flows in an ecosystem.
Identify the primary difference between a food chain and a food web. A food chain is linear and simple, showing a single path of energy flow, whereas a food web is more complex, showing multiple interconnected paths of energy flow.
Consider the role of decomposers. Both food chains and food webs can include decomposers, which break down dead organisms and recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem, although this is not the primary difference between the two.
Reflect on the scope of ecosystems. A food web is specific to a single ecosystem, showing all the interactions within that ecosystem, while a food chain can be part of multiple ecosystems, but this is not the primary difference between them.