Question
13. Choose the best statement that describes the movements of energy and nutrients through living systems. a. Energy flows in one direction and nutrients recycle. b. Energy is limited in the biosphere and nutrients are always available. c. Nutrients flow in one direction and energy recycles. d. Energy forms chemical compounds and nutrients are lost as heat.
Answer
4.6
(239 Votes)
Verity
Master · Tutor for 5 years
Answer
'A'
Explanation
## Step 1This problem is asking us to choose the best statement that accurately describes the movements of energy and nutrients through living systems. ## Step 2Let's analyze each option:- Option "a" states that energy flows in one direction and nutrients recycle. This is a common description of energy and nutrient flow in ecosystems. Energy is typically transferred from the sun to plants (primary producers) through photosynthesis. This energy then flows from one trophic level to the next in a single direction. When organisms die, decomposing processes release nutrients back into the environment, which are then reused by primary producers.- Option "b" suggests that energy is limited in the biosphere and nutrients are always available. This is not accurate because energy is not limited in the biosphere, and nutrients are not always available. They are cycled through the ecosystem, and their availability can vary based on several factors.- Option "c" proposes that nutrients flow in one direction and energy recycles. This is not correct because nutrients do not flow in one direction; they are recycled within the ecosystem.- Option "d" claims that energy forms chemical compounds and nutrients are lost as heat. This is not accurate because energy does not form chemical compounds; it is transformed into chemical energy by organisms. Nutrients are not lost as heat; they are recycled within the ecosystem.## Step 3Based on the above analysis, option "a" is the most accurate description of how energy and nutrients move through living systems.