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Ecosystem

CBSE · Class 12 · Biology

Complete topic list for Ecosystem in CBSE Class 12 Biology. Key concepts, sub-topics, and what to focus on for board exams.

52 questions72 flashcards5 concepts

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A diagram illustrating the interaction between biotic (producers, consumers, decomposers) and abiotic (sunlight, water, soil, temperature, air) components within an ecosystem.
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4 Topics · CBSE Class 12 Biology

Topics in Ecosystem

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1. Ecosystem Structure and Basic Components

  • An ecosystem is a functional unit of nature where living organisms interact with each other and with the physical environment.
  • The entire biosphere is regarded as a global ecosystem made up of all local ecosystems on Earth.
  • Ecosystems are broadly divided into terrestrial and aquatic types.
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2. Productivity

  • Primary productivity is the amount of biomass or organic matter produced per unit area over a time period by plants during photosynthesis.
  • Productivity is expressed as gm⁻² yr⁻¹ or kcal m⁻² yr⁻¹.
  • Primary productivity is divided into gross primary productivity and net primary productivity.
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3. Decomposition

  • Decomposition is the breakdown of complex organic matter into inorganic substances like carbon dioxide, water and nutrients by decomposers.
  • Dead plant remains such as leaves, bark and flowers, and dead remains of animals including fecal matter, form detritus.
  • Detritus is the raw material for decomposition.
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4. Energy Flow and Food Chains

  • Except for the deep sea hydro-thermal ecosystem, the Sun is the only source of energy for all ecosystems on Earth.
  • Less than 50 per cent of incident solar radiation is photosynthetically active radiation.
  • Plants and photosynthetic bacteria fix Sun's radiant energy to make food from simple inorganic materials.

Key Concepts

Central concept: Ecosystem

Structure and functionProductivityDecompositionEnergy flowEcological pyramidsNutrient cyclingEcosystem types

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in Ecosystem for CBSE Class 12 Biology?
Ecosystem covers several key topics that are frequently asked in CBSE Class 12 board exams. Focus on the core concepts listed on this page and practise related questions to build confidence.
How to score full marks in Ecosystem — CBSE Class 12 Biology?
Understand the core concepts first, then work through the 52 practice questions available for this chapter. Revise formulas and definitions regularly, and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

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All 13 chapters — CBSE Class 12 Biology Syllabus

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