What does the availability of more solar energy in the tropics contribute to?

Both a and b

a) Higher productivity

b) Greater diversity

c) Lower productivity

d) Both a and b is the correct option .

The availability of more solar energy in the tropics contributes to higher productivity. Solar energy is a crucial factor driving primary productivity in ecosystems, which refers to the rate at which plants and other producers convert sunlight into biomass through photosynthesis.

Tropical regions, located near the equator, receive more direct sunlight and have longer daylight hours throughout the year compared to temperate or polar regions. The consistent and abundant solar energy in the tropics provides a continuous and ample source of energy for photosynthesis, supporting rapid plant growth and high rates of primary production.

This higher productivity in tropical ecosystems creates a foundation for a diverse and thriving food web, as more energy is available to support various trophic levels. More primary producers (plants) mean more energy available for herbivores (primary consumers), which in turn support larger populations of carnivores (secondary and tertiary consumers).

The availability of solar energy is a significant factor contributing to the remarkable biodiversity observed in tropical regions. The abundance of resources supports a wide variety of plant and animal species, making tropical ecosystems some of the most diverse and ecologically rich areas on Earth. However, it's important to note that higher productivity also means that tropical ecosystems are highly vulnerable to disturbances and human impacts, and their conservation is crucial to protect their unique biodiversity.