alleryStart learning →Gross and net primary productivity differ by the energy that producers spend on:
AWarming the atmosphere
BTheir own functions
CFeeding their predators
DBuilding the soil
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: B. Their own functions
1. The two measures are separated by one deduction.
2. Gross primary productivity is the rate at which producers incorporate solar energy.
3. All organisms need to use some of this energy for their own functions.
4. Those functions include respiration and resulting metabolic heat loss.
5. Net primary productivity is what remains after that use.
_Source: OpenStax Biology 2e (CC BY 4.0), Ch 46 'Ecosystems', sections 46.1-46.3_
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