Chapter 28, Problem 1FIB

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

Sunlight is the important source of energy utilizes by all the life forms to carry out their functions. All living organism requires energy and nutrients for their survival. Energy and nutrients enter the ecosystem through photosynthesis. All the photosynthetic organisms including plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria acquire nutrients from abiotic components of ecosystem. Nutrients are continuously recycled in the ecosystem through nutrient cycle.

Answer to Problem 1FIB

Correct answer:

Nearly all life gets its energy from sunlight, which is captured by the process of photosynthesis. In contrast, nutrients are constantly recycled during the processes called nutrient cycles.

Explanation of Solution

Sunlight is the pivotal source of radiant light and energy. All the living organisms use the light energy from sun to perform various functions. Sun represents the ultimate source of energy for all the components residing in an ecosystem.

Ecosystem consists of different trophic level which includes producers, consumers, detritivores, and decomposers. The producers include the photosynthetic organisms that use sunlight to perform photosynthesis.

All living organisms require essential macro and micro nutrients for their survival. These nutrients are used for growth and building and repairing the body tissues. The nutrients are continuously recycled in the ecosystem through nutrient cycles.

Conclusion

All life forms present on earth utilizes the energy from sun. Sunlight is captured by the producers such as photosynthetic plants to carry out the process of photosynthesis. All organisms require nutrients for their survival and nutrients are constantly recycled in the ecosystem through nutrient cycle.