Scientists refer to the transfer of energy in ecosystems as the energy flow. This concept illustrates how energy moves through trophic levels, from primary producers (like plants) to consumers (like herbivores and carnivores). Energy flow is a linear process, beginning with the conversion of sunlight into chemical energy by photosynthetic organisms. As energy moves through the food chain, approximately only 10% is passed on to the next level, while the remainder is lost as heat. Understanding energy flow is crucial for studying ecosystem dynamics and sustainability.