Science — CBSE Class 10 board question

(i) A kitchen garden is an artificial ecosystem because it is created and maintained by humans — plants are selected, planted, watered, and protected artificially. A forest is a natural ecosystem because it develops on its own without human interference; all components (biotic and abiotic) interact naturally.

(ii) Two things to keep in mind:

1. Include producers, consumers, and decomposers — so that energy flow and nutrient cycling occur naturally, making the system self-sustaining.
2. Ensure adequate sunlight and water — producers need sunlight for photosynthesis to produce food and oxygen for the entire system.

Without these, the ecosystem would depend on external inputs and cannot sustain itself.

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• This question is from the Ecosystem topic (Life Processes / Our Environment, Class 10 Science).
• Key contrast: artificial = human-made/maintained; natural = self-developed.
• For part (ii), examiners expect two distinct points with reasons. The most scoring points are: complete food chain (all trophic levels) and abiotic factors (sunlight, water). Always justify why each point is needed.
• Avoid vague answers like "add plants" — be specific about what role they play.