How is energy transferred between trophic levels in a food chain?

• A. By the direct absorption of sunlight by all trophic levels
• B. By the equal distribution of energy among all organisms in the ecosystem
• C. Through the conversion of energy into matter by decomposers
• D. Through the consumption of organisms at lower trophic levels by those at higher levels

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a food chain: A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms where nutrients and energy pass as one organism eats another.
2. Identify the trophic levels: The primary producers (like plants) are at the first trophic level, primary consumers (herbivores) at the second, secondary consumers (carnivores) at the third, and so on.
3. Recognize how energy is transferred: Energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next through consumption. Organisms at higher trophic levels consume those at lower levels, transferring energy stored in the biomass.
4. Consider energy loss: Not all energy is transferred to the next level. A significant portion is lost as heat due to metabolic processes, following the 10% rule where only about 10% of the energy is passed on to the next level.
5. Clarify the correct answer: Energy is transferred through the consumption of organisms at lower trophic levels by those at higher levels, not by direct sunlight absorption or equal distribution among organisms.