Question

Rate of conversion of light energy into chemical energy of organic molecules in an ecosystem is

• A. Gross primary productivity
• B. Net primary productivity
• C. Net secondary productivity
• D. Gross secondary productivity

Answer 1

The correct option is A Gross primary productivity

In a food chain, energy stored at the producer level is called as primary productivity. Producer level includes photosynthetic organisms like plants and algae. Gross primary productivity is the rate of photosynthesis. In other words, rate of conversion of light energy into chemical energy of organic molecules in an ecosystem is gross primary productivity. Net primary productivity is the rate of storage of organic matter except which is utilized for the respiration by plants. Net productivity is the rate of storage of organic matter which is not used by the consumers. Energy stored at the consumer level is called as secondary productivity. Consumer level includes herbivores, carnivores and decomposers.

Thus, the correct answer is 'Gross primary productivity.'