Chapter 18, Problem 3TQ

Summary Introduction

The biosphere is known as the sum of all the ecosystems present on the earth and also one of the four layers that surrounds the earth along with the hydrosphere, lithosphere, and atmosphere. An ecosystem is comprised of a group of living organisms (microorganisms, animals, and plants) and non-living organisms (water, air, and mineral soil). The ecosystem does not possess a well-defined physical boundary. Ecologists state the ecosystem in different ways based on its functions, particularly how nutrients and energy are assimilated and disseminated by living organisms.