Chapter 2 Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is an ecosystem?
A community (biotic) and its abiotic environment.
What is the interdependence in ecosystems?
Biotic and abiotic components are interdependent.
What are the two truths for all ecosystems?
- Matter cycles between biotic and abiotic components.
- Energy drives the ecosystem and flows one way.
What is energy balance in an ecosystem?
Incoming energy equals outgoing energy.
What happens to incoming energy?
It can be absorbed or reflected.
What happens to absorbed light energy?
It can be re-radiated out to space as longer wavelengths (IR).
What is albedo
The amount of light reflected
What are autotrophs
The producers
Where is chemosynthesis from
Chemicals
What are heterotrophs
Consumers
What is a herbivore
Feed on producers (plants and herbs)
What are carnivores
Feed on consumers (rat and grasshopper)
What are omnivores
Feed on plants and animals
What are detritivores
Feed on dead organic matter
How much energy is passed down each consumer
10%
What is the 1st law of thermodynamics
Law of conservation of energy
(Energy can be changed in form but cant be created or destroyed)
What is the second law of thermodynamics
During energy transformation, some energy is lost, usually as heat
What is the pyramid of numbers
Count numbers of producers in an area and the number of organisms at each trophic level
What is the pyramid of biomass
Measure the mass of dry tissue of producers in an area and animals at each trophic level
What is the pyramid of energy
Thermal energy released when organic matter is burned is measured for each trophic level in an area
