Energy and Nutrients in Ecosystems

Ecologists also study how energy flows through an ecosystem. As each species in an ecosystem consumes another species, the energy flows from the prey to predator. These actions form complex webs through which energy and nutrients travel. In this topic, you will explore these transfers of energy through ecosystems. In addition, you will examine food chains and food webs. Finally, you will learn about three different cycles in ecosystems - the water cycle, the carbon cycle, and the nitrogen cycle.

Essential Questions

• How does energy flow through ecosystems?
• How do ecologists use pyramid diagrams?
• How are living organisms impacted by the water cycle, the carbon cycle, and the nitrogen cycle?