The Laws of Thermodynamics The flow of energy through matter

Life processes Many life processes obtain and use energy, here are some examples: –Photosynthesis –Cellular respiration –Active transport –Growth –Etc…

Trace the flow of energy in this ecosystem.

Autotrophs make chemical energy available for other organisms. Autotrophs: convert solar energy into chemical energy. Do not need to eat. Heterotrophs: must consume other organisms for energy and materials.

Energy cannot be created nor destroyed… it must be converted from one form to another.

With each transfer, energy becomes dispersed into the atmosphere as heat. Thus, it becomes less useful.

Energy flows through the ecosystem, but matter cycles:

Draw a scene to illustrate both laws of thermodynamics: The Sun should be the initial source of energy. Your illustration should show at least 10 distinct energy transformations Show how heat is released to the atmosphere with each conversion. Include both biotic and abiotic substances. Include a caption about your illustration. Challenge: Link all 10 transformations in one long chain.