Which one of the following is TRUE regarding the flow of energy through an ecosystem?
A) Energy flows from the sun to consumers to producers and then back to consumers.
B) When significant decomposer activity occurs, energy flow through the ecosystem is not cyclic.
C) Energy is cycled through an ecosystem and rarely lost as heat.
D) Energy flows from the sun to producers to consumers.
E) As energy flows through an ecosystem, it does not change form.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Energy enters the ecosystem from the sun and is converted into organic matter by producers through photosynthesis. This energy then flows to consumers as they consume the producers and to higher-level consumers as they consume lower-level consumers. Energy is not cycled through an ecosystem as a whole, but rather flows through it in one direction. Therefore, option A and C are false. The role of decomposers is to break down dead organic matter and return nutrients to the soil, not to influence energy flow. Hence, option B is false. Energy can change form as it flows through an ecosystem. Therefore, option E is also false.

Which One of the Following Is TRUE Regarding the Flow