Which of the following best describes the flow of energy through an ecosystem?

• A. Energy flows from decomposers to producers and then to consumers.
• B. Energy flows in one direction, from the sun to producers to consumers, and is eventually lost as heat.
• C. Energy is created by consumers and transferred to producers.
• D. Energy cycles continuously between producers and consumers without any loss.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of energy flow in an ecosystem: Energy originates from the sun and is captured by producers (like plants) through photosynthesis. Producers convert solar energy into chemical energy stored in glucose molecules.
2. Recognize the role of consumers: Consumers (herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores) obtain energy by eating producers or other consumers. This energy transfer occurs through food chains and food webs.
3. Identify the role of decomposers: Decomposers (like fungi and bacteria) break down dead organisms and recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem, but they do not transfer energy back to producers.
4. Clarify the unidirectional flow of energy: Energy flows in one direction—from the sun to producers, then to consumers, and is eventually lost as heat due to metabolic processes. Energy does not cycle continuously like nutrients do.
5. Eliminate incorrect options: Energy is not created by consumers, nor does it cycle continuously without loss. The correct description is that energy flows in one direction, starting from the sun, moving to producers, then to consumers, and is eventually lost as heat.