Campbell Biology (11th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-13409-341-0
ISBN 13: 978-0-13409-341-3

Chapter 55 - 55.1 - Concept Check - Page 1239: 3

Answer

As energy moves through different trophic levels, a significant amount is lost as heat.

Work Step by Step

The second law of thermodynamics indicates that energy cannot be transferred or transformed with 100% efficiency. As energy moves through the ecosystem (through the food chain), a significant amount is lost at each level. To be sustained, the system must be continually receiving new energy.
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