Why does an energy pyramid show a decrease of energy in every trophic level?

Much of the energy from the organism consumed is lost as heat.

The higher the trophic level, the less energy needed for survival.

All of the energy is converted to the mass of the larger organism in the food chain.

The higher the trophic level, the more efficient the energy consumption of the organism.

Question

Why does an energy pyramid show a decrease of energy in every trophic level?

 Much of the energy from the organism consumed is lost as heat.

 The higher the trophic level, the less energy needed for survival.

 All of the energy is converted to the mass of the larger organism in the food chain.

 The higher the trophic level, the more efficient the energy consumption of the organism.

anonymous · Answer

loss of energy through heat would be my guess

anonymous · Answer

according to the laws of thermodynamics

anonymous · Answer

I dont get this one??

anonymous · Answer

basically.. the energy dispersed gets less and less through each passing.. thus the sun hits the plants.. the animals eat the plants.. the animals poop out the food.. the bugs and bacteria eat the poop they decompose and the energy cycle starts over.

anonymous · Answer

basically by the time all is said and done.. 90% of energy is lost by the end of the food cycle.. lost through heat mostly.

anonymous · Answer

Ohh Ok I get it now!! :)

anonymous · Answer

lol really?  that explanation was kinda weak.

anonymous · Answer

Lol No its Good

anonymous · Answer

yupp thanks :D