In a forest ecosystem, how do maple trees obtain matter needed for plant growth?
- takes in carbon dioxide through leaves and absorbs water through roots (correct answer)
- gets matter from sunlight energy during photosynthesis to build wood
- releases minerals into soil through roots to make new branches
- eats nutrients from decomposed leaves to make food in the soil
Explanation: This question tests students' understanding of how matter moves from the environment into plants, specifically through photosynthesis and absorption processes (NGSS 5-LS2-1). Plants obtain matter from two main sources: water absorbed through roots from soil, and carbon dioxide absorbed through small openings called stomata in leaves from the air. During photosynthesis, maple trees use this matter (along with energy from sunlight) to create glucose and other compounds that build wood and other plant structures. Choice A is correct because it accurately identifies both sources of matter - carbon dioxide through leaves and water through roots - that trees need for growth. Choice B represents the common misconception that sunlight provides matter to build wood, when sunlight actually provides energy, not matter. To help students: Use the Van Helmont experiment story to show that tree mass comes mostly from CO2 in air, not soil. Watch for students who think energy and matter are the same thing, or who believe trees get most of their mass from soil nutrients.