Question

The given figure shows the transfer of energy in an ecosystem. In the given food chain, 10,000 J of energy is available to the producers. Calculate and find the amount of energy available to the higher carnivores.

• A. 1,000 J of energy
• B. 100 J of energy
• C. 10 J of energy
• D. 1 J of energy

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

10 J of energy

In a food chain, only 10% of energy is passed onto the next trophic level. The remaining energy is lost in metabolic processes and as heat released during respiration. Thus, if originally 10,000 J of energy is available to the producers, at the second trophic level (herbivores), 10% of 10,000 J = 1000 J of energy will be available.

At the third trophic level (lower carnivores), 10% of 1000 J = 100 J of energy will be available.

At the fourth trophic level (higher carnivores), 10% of 100 J = 10 J of energy will be available.

Therefore, the correct answer is option C.