IB ESS SL 2.2.5 Producers Question Bank
Identify producers and explain their role as the entry point for energy into food systems.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2026
- Course
- ESS SL
- Level
- SL
Exam points
- identify the ecological process or energy relationship
- apply the correct thermodynamic, productivity or trophic concept
- justify the conclusion from evidence and system boundary
2.2.5—Producers question 1
[Maximum number: 4]
Describe the role of primary producers in ecosystems.
producers are plants that convert light energy into chemical energy by photosynthesis;
photosynthesis/primary producers convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose/sugar and oxygen; this conversion/glucose forms the raw material of biomass/the basis of food chains; producers (thereby) provide food for consumers/energy in a form that can be passed along food chains;
the production of oxygen by producers is vital for the majority of ecosystems; the absorption of CO2 maintains a balance of CO2 in atmosphere/reduces global warming;
primary producers may alternatively generate biomass through chemosynthesis; chemosynthetic bacteria use chemical energy to produce food without using sunlight; plants may also provide other resources/services for ecosystem eg habitats/soil conservation/cycling of matter;
Marking guidance:
Award [1] for each correct role described, up to [4 max].
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