energy transfer efficiency and how to improve it

Question 1

where is the most energy loss in an ecosystem and give potential reasons why? (3)

Answer 1

between the sun and producer

• light is the wrong wavelength
• light strikes non-photosynthetic region
• energy is lost as heat

Question 2

between the producer and primary consumer how is energy lost? (4)

Answer 2

• respiratory loss e.g energy for plants metabolism i.e active transport
• lost as heat
• not all of plant is eaten
• some food is not digested (poops)

Question 3

between the primary consumer and secondary consumer how is energy lost? (4)

Answer 3

• respiratory loss (primary consumer uses energy for metabolism)
• lost as heat
• not all animal (1’ consumer) is eaten (bones)
• some food not digested

Question 4

how can you shorten the food web?

Answer 4

reduce competition so plant has more energy to create biomass

Question 5

effect of fertilisers

Answer 5

prevent growth limitations due to lack of nutrients

Question 6

reducing respiratory loss (give example)

Answer 6

stopping cattle moving or keeping them inside in winter

- reduces respiration for movement/heatloss prevention