Question

The energy flow for the given energy pyramid can be best described by the statement

• A. Energy is passed up the pyramid with the least energy at the top.
• B. Energy is passed up the pyramid with the most energy at the top.
• C. Energy is passed down the pyramid with the most energy at the top.
• D. Energy is passed down the pyramid with the most energy at the bottom.
• E. Energy is constant in the pyramid.

Answer 1

The correct option is A Energy is passed up the pyramid with the least energy at the top.

Energy is transferred up the pyramid because each organism is consumed by the one above it. The amount of energy available decreases at each trophic level because the transfers are not 100% efficient as only 10% energy is transferred from one trophic level to another. Some energy is used to run the life processes and some energy is converted into heat. Therefore least energy is available at the top. Hence, the correct answer is option A.