Ecosystems activity
A study of ecosystems might seem misplaced in a discussion about astronomy. However, an understanding of ecosystems plays a crucial role to the viability of long term extra terrestrial settlements.
An ecosystem is made up of interelated plants and animals. The organisms in an ecosystem depend on each other for survival.
Using
a plastic drink bottle we can devise ecosystems in our laboratories.
Construct the ecosystems above and place them in indirect sunlight..
Predict what will happen to the organisms you have placed in the closed
ecosystem.
Over several days observe and document how each organism grows or behaves.
Describe the inter-relationships between all the organisms present.
Research and use the words
Photosynthesis
Respiration
Food chain
Oxygen
Carbon dioxide
Solar energy
Chemical energy
Decomposers (bacteria and fungi).
The process of photosynthesis can be summed up in the following word equation.
carbon dioxide + water + energy --> glucose + oxygen.
The process of respiration can be summed up in the following word equation.
glucose + oxygen --> carbon dioxide + water + energy
How
are photosynthesis and respiration related?
Why do the animals in the closed ecosystem not die through lack of oxygen?
Why will food never run out in this closed ecosystem?