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Question

Difficulty: EasyEcology and Environment

In an open ocean ecosystem, how does usable energy first enter the biological community to support marine animals?

  1. Sunlight is captured by photosynthetic phytoplankton floating near the surfaceAnswer
  2. B
    Heat energy is released into the water by decomposing bacteria on the seafloor
  3. C
    Dissolved oxygen is extracted directly from seawater by swimming fish
  4. D
    Inorganic minerals dissolve into surrounding water from bedrock formations

Answer

Sunlight is captured by photosynthetic phytoplankton floating near the surface
Solar radiation captured by autotrophic phytoplankton near the ocean surface converts light energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis, forming the foundational energetic base for all higher trophic tiers in the marine food web.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the ultimate source of energy for typical surface ocean ecosystems
Solar radiation provides the initial radiant energy input.
Virtually all major aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems rely on the Sun as their primary external energy source.
2
Determine which biological mechanism converts this source into usable organic energy
Photosynthesis conducted by microscopic floating algae and phytoplankton converts light into chemical energy.
Autotrophic organisms must capture radiant energy and convert it into chemical bonds before heterotrophic consumers can access that energy.

Key Concept

Energy flow and primary energy capture in marine ecosystems
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Ecology and Environment

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