The correct answer is: D. All of the above
An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with the nonliving components of their environment. The nonliving components include air, water, soil, and sunlight. The living organisms include plants, animals, and microorganisms.
All ecosystems must have a continuous external source of minerals, energy, and food. Minerals are essential for the growth and development of living organisms. Energy is needed for all biological processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, and movement. Food is a source of energy and nutrients.
If an ecosystem does not have a continuous external source of minerals, energy, and food, it will eventually collapse. This is because the living organisms in the ecosystem will not be able to survive without these essential resources.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Minerals: Minerals are inorganic substances that are essential for the growth and development of living organisms. They are found in the soil and water, and they are absorbed by plants through their roots. Animals obtain minerals from the plants they eat, or from the soil when they eat insects or other animals.
- Energy: Energy is needed for all biological processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, and movement. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Respiration is the process by which organisms break down glucose to release energy. Movement is the process by which organisms move from one place to another.
- Food: Food is a source of energy and nutrients. Energy is needed for all biological processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, and movement. Nutrients are substances that are essential for the growth and development of living organisms. They include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.