Question

How does a simple food chain exemplify the First Law of Thermodynamics?

Answer 1

A simple food chain exemplifies the First Law of Thermodynamics because energy is neither created nor destroyed but only transformed. The solar energy trapped by plants is converted into chemical energy through photosynthesis. When plants are consumed by animals, this chemical energy is transferred to the animals, and some of it is lost as heat during respiration. The death of producers or consumers transfers the remaining organic matter to detritivores. Thus, energy is transformed from one form to another in a food chain.