Chapter 55, Problem 1IQ

What may happen if the input of a mineral nutrient into an ecosystem is less than the output of that element from the ecosystem?

Summary Introduction

To explain: The outcome when the input of a mineral nutrient into an ecosystem is less than the output of that element from the ecosystem.

Introduction: An ecosystem is a community of living things that interact with one another as well as with their environment. The living things are called biotic factors and the nonliving things are called abiotic factors. Both the biotic and abiotic factors are interdependent for nutrients and energy. Many external factors such as climate and soil, and internal factors such as decomposition and root competition can influence or control the ecosystem.

Explanation of Solution

An ecosystem is important for maintaining the various components together, that is, to maintain the balance between the living and nonliving things. The primary function of the ecosystem is the energy flow between the plants and the animal communities. Plants prepare food by photosynthesis, which requires the root to absorb the nutrients from the soil. The nutrients in the soil are enriched by the activity of decomposers. Thus, the nutrient supply for the plant, the producers, is supplied by the food chain. Herbivores eat plants, carnivores eat herbivores, and the decomposers feed on dead carnivores, and finally the nutrients are transferred again to the soil. When the output of a mineral is greater than the input of the mineral to the ecosystem, the production will be limited. This is because there are no enough mineral nutrients for production.