Primary Productivity

Kate Anderson

5 min read

Next Topic - Trophic Levels

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Study Guide Overview

This study guide covers primary productivity, focusing on Gross Primary Productivity (GPP), Respiration, and Net Primary Productivity (NPP). It explains the relationship between these concepts and their role in energy flow within ecosystems. The guide also discusses the importance of NPP for biodiversity and ecosystem stability, and provides practice questions and exam tips.

#AP Environmental Science: Primary Productivity - Your Ultimate Guide

Hey there, future AP Environmental Science superstar! Let's break down primary productivity. Think of this as your cheat sheet for acing the exam.

#Energy Flow in Ecosystems

#Gross Primary Productivity (GPP)

Key Concept

GPP is the total energy captured by producers (like plants) through photosynthesis. It's like a business's total revenue before expenses.

- Think of it as the **total solar energy** converted into chemical energy by plants. - It's the starting point of energy flow in an ecosystem.

#Respiration

Plants use some of the captured energy for their own needs through respiration.
This process releases energy, but some is lost as heat.
Think of it as the cost of doing business for plants.

#Net Primary Productivity (NPP)

Key Concept

NPP is the energy remaining after plants use some for respiration. It's the actual energy available for growth and to support other organisms.

- NPP = GPP - Respiration - Think of it as the business's profit after expenses. - It's the **real energy** available to the ecosystem.

#The Big Picture

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Previous Topic - The Hydrologic Cycle Next Topic - Trophic Levels

Question 1 of 11

🌱 What is the total solar energy converted into chemical energy by plants called?

Net Primary Productivity (NPP)

Respiration

Gross Primary Productivity (GPP)

Ecosystem Efficiency