Energy flows through an ecosystem and materials are recycled - AQA - GCSE Biology - Question 6 - 2022 - Paper 1

The process by which water is absorbed into plant roots is osmosis.

1. Water is used for photosynthesis.
2. Water provides support for plant structure.

First, we calculate the energy conversion efficiency for grass:

Grass energy used for growth = 21,800 kJ Total energy input (sunlight) = 1,700,000 kJ

Using the formula:

[ \text{energy conversion efficiency} = \frac{21800}{1700000} \times 100 \approx 1.28 % ]

Now, we find how many times more efficient the cow is:

[ \text{Number of times} = \frac{4.098}{1.28} \approx 3.20 ]

Therefore, the cow is approximately 3.20 times more efficient than the grass.

1. Less energy is lost as heat when cows are kept indoors, maintaining a warmer environment.
2. Reduced energy loss in movement as cows have limited space to roam indoors.

1. Increased spread of disease due to close confinement of animals.
2. Greater need for the use of antibiotics and other drugs to manage health issues.