Multiple choice

What is the ultimate source of energy for most
ecosystems, and in what form does the energy
leave the ecosystem?
1. plants; animals
2. light; heat
3. plants; heat
4. producers; consumers
5. heat; light

Ultimate source of energy is light, which is captured by photosynthesis. Energy leaves as heat because animals give off heat.

The correct answer is 2. light; heat. Light is the ultimate source of energy for most ecosystems, as it is captured by plants through photosynthesis. However, as energy is transferred and transformed through the ecosystem, it eventually leaves in the form of heat.

To determine the correct answer to this multiple-choice question, we need to understand the concept of energy flow in an ecosystem.

In most ecosystems, the ultimate source of energy is the Sun. So, we can eliminate options 1, 3, and 4 as they mention plants or producers but not the Sun.

Now, we need to consider how the energy leaves the ecosystem. In an ecosystem, the energy that enters through the Sun is captured by plants (producers) during the process of photosynthesis. This energy is then passed on to animals (consumers) when they eat the plants.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 2: light; heat. The energy enters the ecosystem in the form of sunlight (light) and leaves the ecosystem in the form of heat.