Question

Which one of the following is not a function of an ecosystem?
a. Energy flow
b. Decomposition
c. Productivity
d. Stratification

Answer 1

Hint: Ecosystem includes interaction between biotic and non-biotic organisms. Trophic levels show the energy flow among different organisms. Producers and decomposers play an important role in energy flow. Stratification is the process of arranging data of different individuals.

Complete answer:
Food is the main source of the chemical energy in all the organisms. Different organisms have different eating habits which can result in energy flow among different organisms. The transmission of energy occurs in different trophic levels. It depends on the two laws of thermodynamics. The energy flow in the ecosystem is a very important factor. Every individual is interdependent on each other for food. Energy flow supports the survival of organisms. Energy flow follows 10 percent law.

The process by which dead organic substances are broken down into simpler organic or inorganic matter is called decomposition. Carbon dioxide, water and simpler compounds are formed by this.

Productivity is the process of production or rate of generation of biomass in an ecosystem. The unit to measure productivity is mass per volume.

Stratification is the process of vertical layering of a habitat, and arrangement of vegetation in layers. It classifies the layer of different vegetation.

From the above information we have found that stratification is not a function of an ecosystem.

Hence, the correct answer is option (D).

Note: Solar energy is the primary source of energy. Plants are autotrophs; they can prepare their food itself. Heterotrophs depend on plants for their food. Food chain and food web show the energy flow among different organisms. Primary trophic level is that producers have larger amounts of energy. Top carnivores represent the last trophic level.