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Chapter 14 of 15
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Ecosystems and Energy Flow

Maharashtra Board · Class 12 · Biology

Flashcards for Ecosystems and Energy Flow — Maharashtra Board Class 12 Biology. Quick Q&A cards covering key concepts, definitions, and formulas.

45 questions25 flashcards5 concepts

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25 Flashcards
Card 1Ecosystem Structure

Define ecosystem and identify the two main categories based on habitat type.

Answer

An ecosystem is a self-regulatory and self-sustaining structural and functional unit of nature containing both biotic and abiotic components. The two main categories are: 1) Terrestrial ecosystems (fo

Card 2Ecosystem Structure

What is stratification in ecosystems? Give an example from forest ecosystems.

Answer

Stratification is the vertical distribution of different species of plants and animals occupying different levels. In forests: Trees occupy the top vertical layer (emergent and canopy layers), shrubs

Card 3Ecosystem Structure

Distinguish between zonation and stratification with examples.

Answer

Stratification is vertical distribution (trees at top, shrubs in middle, herbs at bottom in forests). Zonation is horizontal distribution across space (inter-tidal, littoral, sub-littoral zones in wet

Card 4Ecosystem Functions

List the four essential processes that any ecosystem must perform for sustainability.

Answer

1) Productivity - conversion of inorganic chemicals into organic material using solar energy 2) Decomposition - breakdown of dead organic material and mineralization 3) Nutrient cycling - storage and

Card 5Productivity

Define Gross Primary Productivity (GPP) and Net Primary Productivity (NPP). Write the relationship between them.

Answer

GPP is the rate of production of organic matter during photosynthesis. NPP is the biomass available for consumption by heterotrophs after plants use energy for their own respiration. Relationship: GPP

Card 6Productivity

Why is ocean productivity lower compared to terrestrial ecosystems?

Answer

Ocean productivity is lower because: 1) Limited availability of nutrients (especially nitrogen and phosphorus) in surface waters, 2) Light penetration decreases with depth, limiting photosynthesis, 3)

Card 7Decomposition

Describe the five important steps in the decomposition process.

Answer

1) Fragmentation - detritivores (earthworms) break detritus into smaller particles 2) Leaching - water-soluble nutrients percolate into soil 3) Catabolism - bacterial and fungal enzymes degrade detrit

Card 8Decomposition

What factors affect the rate of decomposition? How do they influence the process?

Answer

Temperature and soil moisture are most important factors. Warm and moist environment favors decomposition by enhancing microbial activity. Low temperature slows enzyme activity. Anaerobic conditions i

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in Ecosystems and Energy Flow for Maharashtra Board Class 12 Biology?
Ecosystems and Energy Flow covers several key topics that are frequently asked in Maharashtra Board 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 Ecosystems and Energy Flow — Maharashtra Board Class 12 Biology?
Understand the core concepts first, then work through the 45 practice questions available for this chapter. Revise formulas and definitions regularly, and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.
How many flashcards are available for Ecosystems and Energy Flow?
There are 25 flashcards for Ecosystems and Energy Flow covering key definitions, formulas, and concepts. Use them daily for 10–15 minutes for best results.

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

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