IB ESS SL 2.2.8 Second Law and Energy Loss Questions

Explain why energy quality decreases and energy is lost as heat during transfers.

Syllabus
First assessment 2026
Course
ESS SL
Level
SL

Exam points

  • explain how ecosystem energy transformations increase entropy as useful energy is degraded and dissipated as heat
  • apply the second law to food chains by linking respiratory heat loss to energy transfers below 100% efficiency

IB ESS SL 2.2.8 Second Law and Energy Loss Questions question 1

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Figure for Question IB ESS SL 2.2.8 Second Law and Energy Loss Questions question 1 — IB ESS SL

Figure The gross and net productivity at different trophic levels within the Silver Springs, Florida, ecosystem.

Describe how the second law of thermodynamics operates in relation to the transfer of energy within the Silver Springs ecosystem.

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