Overview
Define the terms autotrophy and heterotrophy. Recognise that chemical energy (in the form of carbohydrates, fats, proteins) and nutrients are transferred among producers, consumers and decomposers. State that trophic level refers to the parts of the food chain. Correctly define (or describe) food chains and pyramid of energy/number. Describe the nature of energy transfer or flow in the ecosystem. State that there is a progressive diminution of energy in the feeding chain. Recognise a definite change in the number of individuals from one feeding level to another, especially between producers and consumers.
What you'll learn
- Autotrophy and heterotrophy
- (i) producers (autotrophs)
- (ii) consumers (heterotrophs)
- (iii) aquatic and terrestrial examples of producers and consumers.
- Trophic levels
- (a) Energy relationship: Concepts of (i) food chain (ii) food web.
- (b) Non-cycle nature of chemical energy transfer.
- (c) Nutrient movement
- Energy flow
- (i) Food/energy relationship in aquatic and terrestrial environments.
- (ii) Pyramid of energy/numbers
- (iii) Nature of energy flow in described by food chains.
