Energy can neither be created nor destroyed- it can only change forms. Organisms in ecosystems are constantly obtaining, converting, spending, and losing energy- in various forms!
Energy can neither be created nor destroyed- it can only change forms. Organisms in ecosystems are constantly obtaining, converting, spending, and losing energy- in various forms!
The original source of energy that powers all ecosystems is the sun which radiates light energy. Light energy from the sun is used by plants during the process of photosynthesis to make food molecules. This food, in the form of glucose, can be referred to as chemical energy. All organisms need a source of food so that they can power their cells. Cells specifically run off ATP energy molecules. Therefore, it is essential that organisms convert the chemical energy in their food into ATP energy to power their cells. This process is called cellular respiration.
The original source of energy that powers all ecosystems is the sun which radiates light energy. Light energy from the sun is used by plants during the process of photosynthesis to make food molecules. This food, in the form of glucose, can be referred to as chemical energy. All organisms need a source of food so that they can power their cells. Cells specifically run off ATP energy molecules. Therefore, it is essential that organisms convert the chemical energy in their food into ATP energy to power their cells. This process is called cellular respiration.
When organisms "spend" their ATP energy for metabolic processes, it is not lost. It is instead converted into heat energy. Heat energy is removed from the body. You can feel this heat coming off your body when you exercise!
When organisms "spend" their ATP energy for metabolic processes, it is not lost. It is instead converted into heat energy. Heat energy is removed from the body. You can feel this heat coming off your body when you exercise!