As energy flows in ecosystems, it can be said to
A) cycle, as in a round trip
B) flow from high-quality to low-quality energy in a one-way fashion
C) either flow one way or cycle, depending on the type of energy involved
D) flow in a two-directional fashion
E) energy does not flow or cycle

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Energy flows in ecosystems from high-quality to low-quality energy in a one-way fashion, as energy is transferred from producers to consumers and ultimately lost as heat. This is known as the second law of thermodynamics. While certain elements and compounds may cycle within ecosystems, the energy itself only flows in a one-way direction.

As Energy Flows in Ecosystems, It Can Be Said to