Which Statement Best Describes What Ultimately Happens to the Chemical

question 17

Multiple Choice

Which statement best describes what ultimately happens to the chemical energy that is NOT converted to new biomass in the process of energy transfer between trophic levels in an ecosystem?

• A) It is undigested and winds up in the feces and is not passed on to higher trophic levels.
• B) It is eliminated as feces or is dissipated into space as heat, consistent with the second law of thermodynamics.
• C) Heat produced by cellular respiration is used by heterotrophs for thermoregulation.
• D) It is recycled by decomposers to smaller and smaller forms until it finally breaks down to form soil.
• E) It is used by organisms to maintain their life processes through the reactions of cellular respiration.

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Definitions:

Reticular Formation

A network of neurons located in the brainstem that plays a central role in controlling arousal, wakefulness, and attention.

Brain Regions

Specific areas within the brain that have distinct functions or roles, contributing to the overall operations of the brain and body.

Brainstem

The oldest part and central core of the brain, beginning where the spinal cord swells as it enters the skull; the brainstem is responsible for automatic survival functions.

Medulla

The base of the brainstem; controls heartbeat and breathing.