NEET Biology
NEETBiologyEcosystemClass 12

What does “Ten per cent law” actually mean in Ecosystem, and why does it matter for NEET?

only about 10% of the energy at one trophic level is passed on to the next; the rest is lost as heat and in respiration.

In simple words: only about 10% of the energy at one trophic level is passed on to the next; the rest is lost as heat and in respiration. Getting Ten per cent law clear matters because NEET questions on Ecosystem usually test this idea directly, not just a formula you memorised.

Key point

Ten per cent law

Common mistake

thinking most of the energy moves up to the next level.

Memory tip

90% is lost at each step, which is why food chains are short.

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