B16 - Ecology

Question 1

Producer

Answer 1

Organisms that can produce biomass (organic material) for themselves. Most producers do this through photosynthesis.

Question 2

Consumers

Answer 2

Organisms that have to consume (eat) other organisms

. The first consumer in a chain is a primary consumer, then secondary, then tertiary.

Question 3

Predators

Answer 3

Consumers that eat and kill

Question 4

Prey

Answer 4

Consumers that are eaten.

Question 5

Why must the material in the living world be recycled?

Answer 5

Material in the living world is recycled to provide building blocks for future organisms

Question 6

What chemical elements are recycled when animals and plants decay ?

Answer 6

Decay of dead plants and animals by microorganisms return carbon to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide and mineral ions to the soil

Question 7

Who uses carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and what for?

Answer 7

Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is used by plants for photosynthesis.

Question 8

Why is the water cycle important?

Answer 8

The water cycle provides fresh water for plants and animals on land before draining into the seas. Water is continuously evaporated, condensed and precipitated.

Question 9

What is the role of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle?

Answer 9

Green plants and algae remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere for photosynthesis. This carbon is used to produce carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

Question 10

What is the role of respiration in the carbon cycle?

Answer 10

Living organisms constantly respire. This means glucose is broken down with oxygen-this then provides energy to its cells. Carbon dioxide is a waste product of this process, so it is released into the atmosphere.

Question 11

What is the role of combustion in the carbon cycle?

Answer 11

Wood from trees and fossil fuels contain a lot of carbon. So when they are burned, carbon dioxide is released back into the atmosphere.