Question

Sequence and explain the transfer and transformation of solar energy into biomass as it flows through biotic components of an ecosystem, including - converting light to chemical energy - producing biomass and interacting with components of the carbon cycle:

a) Photosynthesis
b) Cellular respiration
c) Decomposition
d) Trophic levels interactions

Answer 1

The transfer and transformation of solar energy into biomass in an ecosystem involves photosynthesis, cellular respiration, decomposition, and trophic level interactions. Producers convert solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis, which is then released and utilized through cellular respiration. Decomposers break down organic matter, releasing energy into the ecosystem. Energy flows through different trophic levels, with only about 10% passing to the next level.

Step-by-step explanation:

The transfer and transformation of solar energy into biomass in an ecosystem involves several key processes:

1. Photosynthesis: Producers, such as plants, algae, and certain microbes, convert solar energy into chemical energy through the process of photosynthesis. They capture energy from sunlight and use it to convert carbon dioxide and water into organic carbon molecules and oxygen.
2. Cellular respiration: Producers and consumers (organisms that eat other organisms) release the stored energy in biomass through cellular respiration. This process breaks down organic molecules, such as glucose, to release energy that is used for the organisms' metabolic processes.
3. Decomposition: When organisms die or produce waste, decomposers break down their organic matter into simpler compounds. This results in the release of energy and nutrients back into the ecosystem, which can be used by other organisms.
4. Trophic level interactions: Energy flows through different trophic levels in an ecosystem. Producers are at the first trophic level and provide energy to primary consumers (herbivores), which are at the second trophic level. The energy then passes on to secondary consumers (carnivores) at higher trophic levels. Each trophic level has a transfer efficiency, with only about 10% of the energy passing to the next level.

Overall, solar energy is converted into chemical energy by photosynthesis in producers, which is then transferred and transformed through cellular respiration, decomposition, and trophic level interactions within an ecosystem.