AP Environmental Science : Energy Dynamics

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP Environmental Science

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Trophic Levels

What percentage of overall energy is present in the biomass from a lower trophic level to the next highest one? 

Possible Answers:

20%

50%

15%

10%

Correct answer:

10%

Explanation:

Because of the law of conservation of energy, it cannot be 100% since some of the energy in each trophic level must be consumed by the organisms themselves. The energy is lost as heat through metabolic activities and other day to day expenditures. This number is supported due to the high number of producers and only a slight number of primary consumers in comparison. 

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