CLEP - Biology Ecosystems and Energy Flow Questions and Answers

Question 1

In a terrestrial ecosystem, if the producers (plants) contain 10,000 kcal of energy, approximately how much energy would be available to the secondary consumers?

Accepted Answer

100 kcal

Answer

10,000 kcal

Answer

1,000 kcal

Answer

10 kcal

Question 2

A lake is contaminated with a persistent, fat-soluble pesticide. Which of the following organisms would likely contain the highest concentration of this pesticide in its tissues?

Accepted Answer

A large predatory fish

Answer

Phytoplankton

Answer

A small fish that feeds on zooplankton

Answer

Zooplankton

Question 3

Which of the following best defines Net Primary Productivity (NPP)?

Accepted Answer

The rate of energy storage as biomass that is available to consumers.

Answer

The total rate of photosynthesis in an ecosystem.

Answer

The total biomass of all producers in an ecosystem.

Answer

The rate of decomposition by bacteria and fungi.

Question 4

The process by which certain bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) into ammonia (NH3), a form usable by plants, is known as:

Accepted Answer

Nitrogen fixation

Answer

Denitrification

Answer

Ammonification

Answer

Nitrification

Question 5

Why is a pyramid of energy in an ecosystem always depicted as upright?

Accepted Answer

There is a progressive loss of energy at each successive trophic level.

Answer

The biomass of producers is always greater than the biomass of consumers.

Answer

Organisms at higher trophic levels are generally larger than those at lower levels.

Answer

Decomposers at the top of the pyramid recycle energy back to the producers.

Question 6

In an ecosystem, what is the primary role of detritivores, such as bacteria and fungi?

Accepted Answer

To recycle essential chemical nutrients back into the soil.

Answer

To convert solar energy into chemical energy.

Answer

To regulate the population sizes of primary consumers.

Answer

To serve as the primary food source for apex predators.