B16 - Ecosystems Flashcards
Define the term producer.
Producers are organisms that can produce biomass (organic material) for the selves. Most producers do this using photosynthesis.
Define the term consumer.
Consumers are organisms that have to consume (‘eat’) other organisms.
-The first consumer in a chain is a primary consumer, then secondary, then tertiary.
Define the term predator.
Predators are consumers that kill and eat.
Define the term prey.
Prey are consumers that are eaten.
Why must material in the living world be recycled?
Material in the living world must be recycled because it provides the building blocks for future organisms.
What chemical elements are recycled when animals and plants decay?
Carbon is returned to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide and minerals ions are returned to the soil.
Who uses carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and what for?
Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is used by plants in photosynthesis.
Why is the water cycle important?
The water cycle is important because it provides fresh water for plants and animals on land before draining into the seas. Water is continuously evaporated, condensed, and precipitated.
What is the role of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle?
The role of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle is to transfer carbon from the air into plants, which can then be eaten by animals.
what is the role of respiration in the carbon cycle?
The role of respiration in the carbon cycle is to transfer carbon from animals, as well as decomposers, back into the atmosphere, which can then be transferred back into plants through photosynthesis.
What is the role of combustion in the carbon cycle?
The role of combustion in the carbon cycle is to transfer carbon from wood from trees and from fossil fuels back into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide when they are burnt.
