Ecosystem Matter Energy Cycles

Name:

Date:

🌱 Part 1: Ecosystem Components

1. Which of the following are biotic factors in an ecosystem?

Trees and plants

Sunlight

Animals

Soil minerals

Bacteria and fungi

2. What is the primary source of energy for most ecosystems?

Wind

The sun

Water

Soil

3. Fill in the blanks:

In an ecosystem, _____________ are living components while _____________ are non-living components. These two types of factors work together to cycle _____________ and transfer _____________.

4. Which statement best describes how matter moves through an ecosystem?

Matter flows in one direction and is lost

Matter cycles continuously through biotic and abiotic components

Matter only moves between living organisms

Matter stays in the same place

🔄 Part 2: Cycles and Energy Flow

5. Describe the role of decomposers in matter cycling:

6. Complete the energy flow sequence by filling in the missing components:

Sun → _____________ (producers) → _____________ (primary consumers) → _____________ (secondary consumers) → _____________

7. Explain why energy flow is described as a "flow" while matter movement is described as a "cycle":

8. Give two examples of how abiotic factors are essential for matter cycling in ecosystems:

Example 1: _________________________________________________

Example 2: _________________________________________________

🎨 Part 3: Model Your Understanding

9. In the space below, draw a simple model of a forest ecosystem showing both matter cycling and energy flow. Include at least 3 biotic factors, 2 abiotic factors, and use arrows to show the movement of matter and energy. Label all components.

10. Using your model above, write a short paragraph explaining how the biotic and abiotic components work together to maintain the ecosystem: