12. In one or two sentences, explain how the chemical equation for photosynthesis shows that plants cycle matter. Include the number of molecules and atoms involved to support your explanation. (2 points)
13. In a food pyramid, there is typically less biomass at the top (i.e., there are very few individual tertiary consumers, whereas there are numerous individual producers). I three to five sentences explain this phenomenon, citing evidence relating to energy flow and how plants support ecosystems. (4 points)
14. Ocean ecosystems are sensitive to the chemical composition of the water. Any excess compounds can upset the balance and cause damage to organisms. In three to five sentences, describe how reducing consumption of fossil fuels can help the oceans ecosystems. (4 points)
I have a little for 14. but I tried to understand the questions but I kinda need a guide or example of what to put; so, can someone, please, help?!
PLEAAASSSSSEEEEEE
Can someone please help this poor soul understand
12. The chemical equation for photosynthesis, 6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2, demonstrates that plants cycle matter by taking in carbon dioxide (6 molecules) and water (6 molecules) and converting them into glucose (1 molecule) and oxygen (6 molecules). This shows that the atoms in carbon dioxide, water, glucose, and oxygen are being rearranged and recycled within the plant during photosynthesis.
13. In a food pyramid, there is typically less biomass at the top because energy flow decreases as it moves up the trophic levels. Each trophic level only retains about 10% of the energy from the level below it, resulting in a smaller biomass at higher levels. Producers, such as plants, have the highest biomass as they are able to convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, which supports the entire ecosystem by serving as the primary source of energy.
14. Reducing consumption of fossil fuels can help ocean ecosystems by reducing the input of harmful compounds into the water. Fossil fuels release carbon dioxide when burned, which can lead to ocean acidification and disrupt the pH balance, harming marine organisms. Additionally, burning fossil fuels contributes to global warming, leading to rising sea temperatures and the bleaching of coral reefs. By transitioning to cleaner and renewable energy sources, we can minimize the negative impacts on the chemical composition of the water and help maintain a healthy balance in ocean ecosystems.
12. The chemical equation for photosynthesis, 6CO2 + 6H2O -> C6H12O6 + 6O2, shows that plants cycle matter by taking in carbon dioxide (6 molecules) and water (6 molecules) and converting them into glucose (1 molecule) and oxygen (6 molecules). This equation demonstrates that plants utilize the carbon and oxygen atoms from carbon dioxide, along with the hydrogen and oxygen atoms from water, to synthesize glucose, storing the energy in chemical bonds, while releasing oxygen back into the environment.
13. In a food pyramid, there is typically less biomass at the top because as energy flows through an ecosystem, it is transferred from one trophic level to the next with a loss of energy in the form of heat. Producers (plants) receive the most energy from the sun and convert it into chemical energy through photosynthesis. They support ecosystems by providing food and energy for primary consumers (herbivores), with only a fraction of the energy being transferred to each subsequent level. As a result, there is a pyramid with a large base of producers and a smaller number of consumers at each higher trophic level.
14. Reducing consumption of fossil fuels can help ocean ecosystems by minimizing the release of harmful compounds into the water. Fossil fuel combustion releases carbon dioxide, which increases the acidity of oceans, leading to ocean acidification. This can have detrimental effects on the growth and survival of many marine organisms, particularly those with calcium carbonate shells or skeletons like corals and shellfish. Additionally, reducing the burning of fossil fuels decreases the release of other pollutants like nitrogen and sulfur compounds, which can cause eutrophication and disrupt the balance of nutrient levels, leading to algal blooms and oxygen depletion in the water, harming aquatic life. By reducing fossil fuel consumption, we can help maintain the chemical composition of the water and prevent damage to the delicate balance of ocean ecosystems.