science grd.8 CHPT.4 (pt.2) Flashcards
organism the is able to capture energy from sunlight or chemicals and use it to produce its own food from inorganic compounds:also called a computer
Autotroph
first producer of energy-rich compounds that are later used by other organisms
primary producer
process in which chemical energy is used to produce carbohydrates
chemosynthesis
process used by plants and other autotrophs to capture light energy and use it to power chemical reactions tat convert carbon dioxide + water into oxygen +energy-rich carbohydrates such as sugars and starches
photosynthesis
organism that obtains food by consuming other living things; also called consumers
heterotroph
organism that relies on other organisms for ite energy and food supply; also called a heterotroph
consumers
material made u of decaying bits of plants and animal material
detritus
cycle-process in which elements, chemical compounds, and other forms of matter are passed from one part of the biosphere to another
biochemical cycle
chemical substance that an organism needs to sustain life
nutrient
process of converting nitrogen gas into nitrogen compounds that plants can absorb and use
nitrogen fixation
process by which bacteria converts nitrates into nitrogen gas
denitrification
single essential nutrient that limits productivity in n ecosystem
limiting nutrient
a series of steps in an ecosystem in which organisms transfer energy by eating and being eaten
food chain
photosynthesis algae found near the surface of the ocean
phytoplankton
network of complex interactions formed by the feeding relationships among the various organisms
food web
