#1
What is the primary source of energy for most ecosystems?
Sunlight
ExplanationSunlight is the main energy source driving photosynthesis, sustaining life in ecosystems.
#2
Which of the following is not a primary producer in an ecosystem?
Bacteria
ExplanationBacteria, though vital, are not primary producers; they lack photosynthesis and depend on organic matter.
#3
What is the term for a group of organisms of the same species living in the same area?
Population
ExplanationA population comprises individuals of the same species living in a specific geographical area.
#4
Which of the following is NOT a factor influencing microbial growth?
Radiation
ExplanationRadiation is not a typical factor influencing microbial growth; factors include temperature, pH, and nutrient availability.
#5
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of prokaryotic cells?
Presence of a nucleus
ExplanationProkaryotic cells lack a true nucleus, distinguishing them from eukaryotic cells.
#6
What is the term for the process by which microorganisms convert organic matter into simpler compounds?
Decomposition
ExplanationDecomposition involves the breakdown of complex organic compounds into simpler substances by microorganisms.
#7
What is the term for the total mass of living organisms in a given area?
Biomass
ExplanationBiomass represents the collective mass of living organisms within a specific geographical area.
#8
Which of the following is an example of a decomposer in an ecosystem?
Fungi
ExplanationFungi play a crucial role as decomposers, breaking down organic matter into simpler substances.
#9
Which of the following is an example of a pioneer species?
Moss
ExplanationMoss is a classic example of a pioneer species, colonizing barren environments and facilitating ecosystem development.
#10
What is the term for the relationship between two organisms where one benefits and the other is unaffected?
Commensalism
ExplanationCommensalism describes a symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits, and the other remains unaffected.
#11
Which of the following is an example of a biogeochemical cycle?
All of the above
ExplanationBiogeochemical cycles, like the water, carbon, and nitrogen cycles, involve the movement of elements through living and non-living components of ecosystems.
#12
What is the term for the study of the relationships between microorganisms and their biotic and abiotic environment?
Microbial ecology
ExplanationMicrobial ecology explores the intricate connections between microorganisms and their living and non-living surroundings.
#13
What is the term for the process by which two species compete for the same limited resource?
Competition
ExplanationCompetition refers to the struggle between organisms for shared resources in an ecosystem.
#14
Which factor does NOT contribute to microbial diversity?
Humidity
ExplanationHumidity is not a direct contributor to microbial diversity; factors like substrate availability and environmental conditions play a more significant role.
#15
What is the term for the study of the interactions between microorganisms and their environment?
Microbial ecology
ExplanationMicrobial ecology focuses on understanding the relationships between microorganisms and their biotic and abiotic surroundings.
#16
What is the term for the variety of different species in an ecosystem?
Biodiversity
ExplanationBiodiversity represents the richness and variety of species within a particular ecosystem.
#17
Which of the following is a major factor influencing microbial community structure in soil?
All of the above
ExplanationMicrobial community structure in soil is influenced by factors like nutrient availability, pH, and organic matter content.
#18
Which of the following is NOT an example of a biogeochemical cycle?
Oxygen cycle
ExplanationWhile oxygen is crucial for life, it does not follow a typical biogeochemical cycle like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus.