1. In the biosphere, matter follows a circular pathway while energy follows a li
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Question
1. In the biosphere, matter follows a circular pathway while energy follows a linear pathway. Explain.
2. Ecosystems require energy to function. Where does this energy come from? Where does it go? or How does it flow?
3. The population density of large carnivores is always very small when compared to the population density of herbivores within the same ecosystem. Explain this relationship in terms of energy.
4. Humans tend to view species at higher trophic levels as more important than species at lower trophic levels. Is this a correct interpretation? Explain.
Explanation / Answer
1. In a biosphere, matter flows in a circular pathway although it is cycled into different states constantly. Matter is neither created nor destroyed, according to the principle of conservation of matter. Consequently, while in the constant cycle of change, it returns to one of its original form and the same cycle starts again. So, the flow of matter is circular.
The flow of energy is linear although energy is conserved in a biosphere. This is because energy changes its form and while this change occurs, some energy is dissipated. Eventually, lesser amount of energy is available for this dissipation as energy goes higher up in the chain. Thus, the flow is linear.
2. Ecosystems need energy to function. This energy comes from the sun i.e. the ultimate source of energy of ecosystems is sunlight. This energy enters an ecosystem through the food chain. It is measured in Joules or calories. The energy that does not enter the food chain is dissipated as heat. The food chain is represented by the different trophic levels of producers, consumers and decomposers. The solar energy is converted to chemical energy and this is stored as food in the different trophic levels.
3. The population density of large carnivores is always small as compred to that of herbivores in the same ecosystem because the carnivores eat the herbivores and moreover, the herbivores consume the primary producers (Plants and trees) which derive their energy and food from the sun. Energy level is greater in the trophic level of herbivores than at carnivores. When energy passes from herbivores to carnivores, a great portion of energy is lost.
4. Humans tend to view species at higher trophic levels as more important than species at lower trophic levels. This is not the correct interpretation. This is because the species at higher trophic levels take their food from species at the lower trophic levels. Thus, the latter are necessary for the sustainance of the former.
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