Question

In an ecosystem, the 10% of energy available for transfer from one trophic level to the next is in the form of.

• A. Heat energy
• B. Light energy
• C. Chemical energy
• D. Mechanical energy

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Chemical energy

The correct option is C.

Explanations of correct option:

Option C:

1. The energy flow is the process in which a specific amount of energy transfers from one trophic to another in an ecological pyramid.
2. The flow of energy occurs in the form of food, as one organism from a specific trophic level feeds on another organism from the other trophic level.
3. Hence, the flow of energy occurs in the form of the transfer of chemical energy.
4. This flow of energy is also known as the calorific flow, which is 10% meaning that only 10% of the energy transfers from the successive trophic level.
5. The 10& rule signifies that the higher trophic level receives only 10% of the energy from the energy level below it.
6. The 10% Rule means that when energy is passed in an ecosystem from one trophic level to the next, only ten percent of the energy will be passed on.
7. Hence, upon moving up in the pyramid, we observe the energy level decreases gradually by a factor of 10.

Explanations of incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Heat energy also known as thermal energy arises from the transfer of heat between the surrounding molecules and the body system.
2. Heat energy arises due to the vibrations of particles of matter.
3. The energy flow from one trophic level to another does not occur in the form of heat energy.

Option B:

1. Light energy from the sun is trapped by autotrophs and by primary consumers to produce food via the process of photosynthesis.
2. Chlorophyll pigments present in the plant cells help to trap the light energy of the sun.
3. The energy flow from one trophic level to another does not occur in the form of light energy.

Option D:

1. Mechanical energy is the energy produced due to the motion of particles or change in position in space.
2. Mechanical energy is equal to potential and kinetic energy.
3. The energy flow from one trophic level to another does not occur in the form of mechanical energy.

Final answer: In an ecosystem, the 10% of energy available for transfer from one trophic level to the next is in the form of chemical energy.