The second law of thermodynamics is relevant to ecosystems because:
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Correct answer: Ecosystems need a constant energy input to counteract the increase in entropy
The second law states that every energy transfer involves a loss of usable energy (as heat). Ecosystems must constantly receive solar energy to maintain order and offset this natural tendency toward disorder (entropy).
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More Energy Flow and Food Chains questions
- Which of the following groups of organisms constitute the second trophic level in a forest ecosystem?
- What percentage of the incident solar radiation is generally captured by plants to sustain the entire ecosystem?
- In a Grazing Food Chain (GFC), which of the following represents the correct sequence of energy flow?
- The Detritus Food Chain (DFC) begins with:
- In terrestrial ecosystems, a much larger fraction of energy flows through which of the following?
- Which of the following organisms can occupy more than one trophic level in the same ecosystem at the same time?