Campbell Biology
Campbell Biology
12th Edition
ISBN: 9780135188743
Author: Urry
Publisher: PEARSON
Question
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Chapter 10, Problem 10.1CR
Summary Introduction

To find: How photosynthesis directly or indirectly feeds organisms like producers, consumers, and decomposers.

Introduction: Photosynthesis is one of the most important processes for producers (green plants, algae). In this process, they utilize sunlight to convert CO2 from air and water from the root into simple sugar (glucose) as a food source.

Producers are green plants and algae which are known as autotrophs. They can prepare their food through the process of photosynthesis.

Consumers are the animals which are depending directly or indirectly on producers for food. There are three levels of consumers, primary consumers, secondary consumers, and tertiary consumers.

Decomposers are those organisms that obtain chemical energy from the breakdown of complex organic into simple organic substances from dead and decayed animals and plant waste.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

In the ecosystem a constant flow of energy is necessary and the energy constantly enters the atmosphere in the form of sunlight. This energy is absorbed by producers and utilized in the process of photosynthesis to convert atmospheric CO2 and water into sugar. This sugar obtained via the process of photosynthesis, is utilized as food in the producer cell via different reactions and then producers were consumed by the consumer as food and the cycle goes. The remaining dead and decaying parts of plants and animals are broken down into simple organic compounds by the decomposers, which are ultimately mixed with the soil.

So, indirectly photosynthesis is the primary biochemical reaction that is responsible for the creation of food for all living beings (producers, consumers, decomposers)

Conclusion

All the living beings (producers, consumers, and decomposers) in the earth's ecosystem indirectly rely upon the process of photosynthesis for food.

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