Question

Give an account of energy flow in an ecosystem.

Answer 1

Energy enters an ecosystem from the Sun. Solar radiations pass through the atmosphere and is absorbed by the Earth’s surface. These radiations help plants in carrying out the process of photosynthesis. Also, they help maintain Earth’s temperature, which is essential for the survival of living organisms. The Earth’s surface reflects some solar radiation. Only 2-10 percent of solar energy is captured by green plants (producers) during photosynthesis to be converted into food. The rate at which plants produce biomass during photosynthesis is termed ‘gross primary productivity’. When these green plants are consumed by herbivores, only 10% of the stored energy from producers is transferred to herbivores. Plants use the remaining 90% of this energy for various processes such as respiration, growth, and reproduction. Similarly, only 10% of the energy is transferred from herbivores to carnivores. This is known as the ten percent law of energy flow.