The law of conservation of mass states that matter cannot be created,yet matter is sometimes gained or lost to an ecosystem.What is the reason for this seeming contradiction?
A)Chemosynthetic prokaryotes convert all organic matter to energy.
B)Matter can be moved between ecosystems as they are open systems.
C)Autotrophs convert simple sugars to complex organic molecules.
D)Matter can be lost to the environment as it is converted to energy.
E)Heterotrophs convert light energy to non-living organic matter.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ecosystems are open systems, meaning that matter can be gained or lost to them through inputs and outputs. While matter cannot be created or destroyed within a closed system, it can be moved between ecosystems through processes such as migration, decomposition, and nutrient cycling.

The Law of Conservation of Mass States That Matter Cannot