Question

Describe the flow of energy in an ecosystem with the help of various models.

Answer 1

Energy flows in an ecosystem in a one-way, non-cyclic process. Solar energy is captured by producers (plants) via photosynthesis and converted into chemical energy. This energy passes through consumers and decomposers, but decreases at each trophic level due to heat loss. Only about 10% of energy at one level is transferred to the next, illustrated by the 10% law. Models such as food chains, food webs, and ecological pyramids depict the flow and transfer of energy in ecosystems.