Q16. - Biology

Question

What law of chemistry determines how much energy can be transferred when it is converted from one form to another? a. the first law of thermodynamics b. the second law of thermodynamics c. the conservation of matter d. the conservation of energy 

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct option is b. the second law of thermodynamics .

Step 1. Given information

As energy flows from primary producers through the various trophic levels, the ecosystem loses large amounts of energy 

Step 2. Explanation

The correct option is b. the second law of thermodynamics .

y. The main reason for this loss is the second law of thermodynamics, which states that whenever energy is converted from one form to another, there is a tendency toward disorder (entropy) in the system. In biologic systems, this energy takes the form of metabolic heat, which is lost when the organisms consume other organisms.