Ecosystem: Interdependence in Nature - 2 Class 5 Worksheet Science

Q1: Short Answer Questions.

(ii) Give two examples of abiotic components of an ecosystem.
Ans: Two examples of abiotic components of an ecosystem are water and sunlight.

(iii) Name two producers in an ecosystem.
Ans: Two producers in an ecosystem are grass and trees, as they produce their own food through photosynthesis.

(iv) What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?
Ans: The role of decomposers in an ecosystem is to break down dead plants and animals, returning nutrients to the soil and allowing new plants to grow.

(v) What is the difference between a herbivore and a carnivore?
Ans: The difference between a herbivore and a carnivore is that a herbivore eats plants for their food, while a carnivore eats other animals for their food.

Q2: Long Questions Answer.

(i) Explain the concept of an ecological niche.
Ans: An ecological niche refers to the specific role and position of an organism in its ecosystem. It includes its interactions with other organisms, its habitat, and its utilization of resources. Each species occupies a unique niche, and no two species can have exactly the same niche without facing competition. The ecological niche helps maintain balance and coexistence among different species in an ecosystem.

(ii) Describe the importance of decomposers in an ecosystem.
Ans: Decomposers play a crucial role in the ecosystem by breaking down dead organic matter, such as dead plants and animals. This process releases nutrients back into the soil, making them available for plants and other organisms. Without decomposers, organic matter would accumulate, and nutrients would become locked up, affecting the overall nutrient cycle and ecosystem health.

(iii) Differentiate between herbivores and carnivores.
Ans: Herbivores are animals that consume only plant-based food, such as leaves, fruits, and seeds. They have specialized teeth and digestive systems to extract nutrients from plant matter. On the other hand, carnivores are animals that primarily eat other animals. They have sharp teeth and claws to capture and consume prey. Some carnivores are also referred to as predators.

(iv) How do plants contribute to the balance of gases in the atmosphere?
Ans: During photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen. This process helps in reducing the amount of carbon dioxide, which is a greenhouse gas responsible for global warming. By releasing oxygen, plants contribute to the oxygen balance in the atmosphere, which is essential for the survival of all aerobic organisms.

(v) Discuss one human activity that can negatively impact an ecosystem and explain its consequences.
Ans: Deforestation is a human activity that can have significant negative impacts on an ecosystem. When large areas of forests are cleared for agriculture, urbanization, or logging, it leads to the loss of habitat for many plant and animal species. This can result in the extinction or migration of certain species, disrupting the balance of the ecosystem. Deforestation also reduces the number of trees that can absorb carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change.