Which of the following is the correct flow of energy through a food web?

• A. Producers → Sun → Primary Consumers → Secondary Consumers → Tertiary Consumers
• B. Primary Consumers → Producers → Secondary Consumers → Tertiary Consumers → Sun
• C. Sun → Primary Consumers → Producers → Secondary Consumers → Tertiary Consumers
• D. Sun → Producers → Primary Consumers → Secondary Consumers → Tertiary Consumers

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of energy flow in a food web: Energy originates from the Sun and is transferred through different trophic levels in an ecosystem. Producers (like plants) convert solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis.
2. Identify the role of producers: Producers are organisms that create their own food using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide. They form the base of the food web and provide energy to primary consumers.
3. Define primary consumers: Primary consumers are herbivores that feed directly on producers to obtain energy. Examples include insects, rabbits, and deer.
4. Explain secondary and tertiary consumers: Secondary consumers are carnivores or omnivores that eat primary consumers, while tertiary consumers are predators at the top of the food chain that feed on secondary consumers.
5. Trace the correct energy flow: Energy flows from the Sun to producers, then to primary consumers, followed by secondary consumers, and finally to tertiary consumers. This sequence represents the correct flow of energy in a food web.