How is matter transferred between the living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem and how does energy move from the atmosphere into living things?
Murtadha Shukur
Producers to Consumers: Plants, also known as producers, capture energy from the sun through photosynthesis and use it to convert inorganic substances like water and carbon dioxide into organic matter like sugars. These sugars are then used by the plants to build their tissues and grow. When animals, or consumers, eat these plants, they take in the organic matter and use it to build their own bodies and fuel their activities. Consumers to Decomposers: When consumers die or waste products are released, decomposers like bacteria and fungi come into play. These tiny organisms break down the complex organic matter from dead plants and animals into simpler inorganic forms like nutrients. Decomposers to Producers: The nutrients released by decomposers are then absorbed by plants through their roots or taken up by algae in aquatic ecosystems. These nutrients are essential for plant growth and are used to produce new organic matter, starting the cycle all over again. Sun to Producers: The sun is the primary source of energy for most ecosystems. Plants capture sunlight through photosynthesis and convert it into chemical energy stored in organic molecules like glucose. Producers to Consumers: When consumers eat plants, they ingest the stored chemical energy. This energy is used for various functions like movement, growth, and reproduction. Consumers to Decomposers and Heat Loss: When consumers use energy for their activities, some of it is lost as heat, which dissipates into the environment. Decomposers also use some of the energy from dead organisms for their own metabolism, releasing heat in the process.
The transfer of matter and energy in an ecosystem is a continuous cycle that sustains life. Here's how it works:
Matter Transfer:
📷Opens in a new window📷en.wikipedia.org
Photosynthesis process in plants
📷Opens in a new window📷www.expii.com
Decomposers breaking down dead matter
Energy Transfer:
Important Points:
- Unlike energy, which is constantly lost from the ecosystem as heat, matter is recycled and reused continuously.
- Decomposers play a crucial role in breaking down dead matter and releasing nutrients back into the environment, making them essential for the continued functioning of the ecosystem.
- The flow of matter and energy through an ecosystem is essential for maintaining the balance and sustainability of life.
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