How does the flow of matter and energy happen in the biosphere and flow of energy in the biosphere related to the flow of food through a food chain?
The flow of matter and energy in the biosphere is the result of the interactions between living organisms and their physical environment. Matter cycles within the biosphere through processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and nutrient uptake. Energy flows through the biosphere from the Sun to the producers and then to the consumers and decomposers. The flow of energy in the biosphere is related to the flow of food through a food chain, which is a linear sequence of organisms that feed on each other. The food chain shows how energy and matter are transferred from one trophic level (feeding level) to another. The producers, such as plants and algae, capture solar energy and convert it into chemical energy through photosynthesis.
The consumers, such as herbivores and carnivores, obtain chemical energy by eating the producers or other consumers. The decomposers, such as bacteria and fungi, break down the organic matter of dead organisms and release the nutrients back into the environment. The energy flow through the food chain follows the 10 percent law, which states that only 10 percent of the energy available at one trophic level is transferred to the next trophic level. The rest of the energy is lost as heat or used for metabolism.
Therefore, the amount of energy and biomass decreases as one moves up the food chain. This is represented by the ecological pyramids, which show the relative amount of energy, biomass, or number of organisms at each trophic level.
The flow of matter and energy in the biosphere is a complex and interconnected dance, driven by the sun as the ultimate energy source. Here's a breakdown:
Energy Flow:
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Photosynthesis process
Food Chain and Flow of Matter:
A food chain is a simplified model that illustrates the transfer of energy through different feeding levels. Each level in the chain represents a trophic level, with primary producers at the base and top predators at the apex.
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Food chain example
The flow of matter, however, differs from energy flow. Unlike energy, matter isn't lost as it moves through the food chain. Instead, it's recycled and transformed. Dead organisms and waste products provide nutrients and organic matter for plants, which are then consumed by herbivores, and so on. This continuous cycling ensures the long-term sustainability of ecosystems.
Key Takeaways:
- The sun is the primary energy source for the biosphere.
- Energy flows unidirectionally through the food chain, decreasing at each level.
- Matter is recycled and transformed within the biosphere, driven by decomposers.
- Food chains are simplified models representing energy flow, while matter cycles within ecosystems.
This intricate interplay of energy and matter flow sustains the vibrant web of life in the biosphere, maintaining a delicate balance that supports all living organisms.
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