Which of the following is the result of the one-way path of energy flow through the ecosystem?

• A. Energy must be continuously supplied by the sun to sustain life
• B. Energy is recycled indefinitely within the ecosystem
• C. Producers receive energy from consumers
• D. All energy is eventually converted back into chemical energy

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of energy flow in ecosystems: Energy flows in one direction through an ecosystem, starting from the sun, which provides energy to producers (like plants) through photosynthesis.
2. Recognize that energy is not recycled indefinitely: Unlike nutrients, energy cannot be reused within the ecosystem. It is lost as heat during each transfer between trophic levels.
3. Identify the role of producers and consumers: Producers convert solar energy into chemical energy, which is then passed to consumers through feeding relationships. Consumers do not provide energy to producers.
4. Understand the fate of energy in ecosystems: Energy is eventually lost as heat due to metabolic processes and cannot be converted back into chemical energy within the ecosystem.
5. Conclude that energy must be continuously supplied by the sun to sustain life, as it is not recycled and is lost as heat during energy transfers.