In the context of organic chemistry, do nutrients cycle or flow through an ecosystem?

• A. Nutrients neither cycle nor flow through an ecosystem.
• B. Nutrients cycle through an ecosystem.
• C. Nutrients flow through an ecosystem and do not return.
• D. Nutrients are only introduced into an ecosystem but do not move.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of nutrient cycling: In an ecosystem, nutrients are recycled through various processes such as decomposition, absorption by plants, and consumption by animals.
2. Recognize the role of decomposers: Decomposers like bacteria and fungi break down dead organic matter, releasing nutrients back into the soil, which plants can then absorb.
3. Identify the movement of nutrients: Nutrients move through the food chain as plants are consumed by herbivores, which are then consumed by carnivores.
4. Acknowledge the return of nutrients: When organisms excrete waste or die, decomposers break down the organic material, returning nutrients to the soil, completing the cycle.
5. Conclude that nutrients cycle: Based on the above steps, nutrients do indeed cycle through an ecosystem, as they are reused and recycled continuously.