Which Statement Most Accurately Describes How Matter and Energy Are

Question

Which statement most accurately describes how matter and energy are used in ecosystems?
A)Matter is cycled through ecosystems; energy is not.
B)Energy is cycled through ecosystems; matter is not.
C)Energy can be converted into matter; matter cannot be converted into energy.
D)Matter can be converted into energy; energy cannot be converted into matter.
E)Matter is used in ecosystems; energy is not.

Accepted Answer

Matter is cycled through ecosystems through biogeochemical cycles such as the carbon cycle, nitrogen cycle, and water cycle. Energy, on the other hand, flows through ecosystems in a one-way manner, as it is ultimately converted into heat and lost to the environment. Energy cannot be cycled in the same way matter can.