The total amount of energy that plants assimilate by photosynthesis is called

Options

A. gross primary production
B. net primary production
C. biomass.
D. a pyramid of energy.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Photosynthesis**: Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, specifically glucose, using carbon dioxide and water. This process is fundamental for plant growth and energy production.

2. **Defining Energy Assimilation**: The energy that plants capture and convert during photosynthesis is referred to as the total energy they produce. This energy is crucial for their growth and sustenance.

3. **Introducing Gross Primary Production (GPP)**: The total amount of energy that plants assimilate through photosynthesis, without accounting for any losses, is termed Gross Primary Production (GPP). The term "gross" indicates that this measurement does not consider any energy lost through respiration or other processes.

4. **Differentiating from Net Primary Production (NPP)**: It is important to distinguish GPP from Net Primary Production (NPP). NPP is the energy that remains after accounting for the energy used by plants for respiration. NPP is what is available to the next trophic level, such as herbivores.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the total amount of energy that plants assimilate by photosynthesis is called Gross Primary Production (GPP).

**Final Answer**: The total amount of energy that plants assimilate by photosynthesis is called **Gross Primary Production (GPP)**.

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