Question

What is the term for the accumulation of organic matter by plants?

• A. A) Secondary production
• B. B) Net Primary Production
• C. C) Primary production
• D. D) Gross Primary Production

Answer 1

Answer:

C. C) Primary production

Understanding Primary Production

Definition:

Primary production refers to the synthesis of organic compounds from atmospheric or aquatic carbon dioxide. It is the process by which autotrophs, primarily plants and algae, convert light energy (photosynthesis) or chemical energy (chemosynthesis) into chemical energy stored in organic matter.

Role of Producers:

In an ecosystem, plants, algae, and some bacteria are known as producers (or autotrophs) because they produce their own food. They form the base of the food web, converting inorganic carbon into organic compounds, which then become available to other organisms (consumers).