Question

Which best describes the movement of energy and matter through living systems?

• A. Energy flows while matter is cycled.
• B. Matter flows in two directions while energy flows in one direction.
• C. Energy is cycled while some matter is lost as heat.
• D. Energy forms chemical compounds while matter flows.
• E. Matter is always available while energy is cycled.

Answer 1

The correct option is A Energy flows while matter is cycled.

Energy is passed from one trophic level to the next trophic level. Hence energy flows through successive trophic levels in a food chain.

Matter may be organic or inorganic. The organic and inorganic matter is produced, exchanged and moved within the ecosystem and this is called cycling. Hence matter is cycled.

So, the correct answer is 'Energy flows while matter is cycled'.