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Ecosystem

CBSE · Class 12 · Biology

Quick revision notes for Ecosystem — CBSE Class 12 Biology. Key concepts, formulas, and definitions for last-minute revision.

44 questions40 flashcards5 concepts

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A diagram illustrating the interaction between biotic (producers, consumers, decomposers) and abiotic (sunlight, water, soil, temperature, air) components within an ecosystem.
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Key Topics to Revise

1

Structure and Components of Ecosystem

  • Ecosystem is a structural and functional unit of nature comprising abiotic and biotic components
  • Abiotic components: Air, water, soil, temperature, light, pH, minerals
  • Biotic components: Producers (autotrophs), consumers (heterotrophs), decomposers
2

Productivity in Ecosystems

  • Primary productivity: Amount of biomass/organic matter produced per unit area over time by plants during photosynthesis
  • Expressed in weight (g m⁻²) or energy (kcal m⁻²)
  • Productivity rate: g m⁻² yr⁻¹ or kcal m⁻² yr⁻¹
3

Decomposition

  • Decomposition: Breakdown of complex organic matter into inorganic substances
  • Detritus: Dead plant and animal remains including fecal matter
  • Five important steps: Fragmentation, Leaching, Catabolism, Humification, Mineralisation
4

Energy Flow

  • Sun is the only source of energy for ecosystems (except deep-sea hydrothermal)
  • Less than 50% of solar radiation is Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR)
  • Plants capture only 2-10% of PAR

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Full Notes

Key Concepts

An ecosystem consists of abiotic componentsPrimary productivity is the rateDecomposition is the breakdown of complexEnergy flows unidirectionally from sunFood chains show linear energy transfer

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in Ecosystem for CBSE Class 12 Biology?
Ecosystem covers several key topics that are frequently asked in CBSE Class 12 board exams. Focus on the core concepts listed on this page and practise related questions to build confidence.
How to score full marks in Ecosystem — CBSE Class 12 Biology?
Start by understanding all key concepts. Practise previous year questions from this chapter. Revise formulas and definitions regularly. Use flashcards for quick revision before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

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