What does a food chain illustrate?

A food chain illustrates the flow of energy and nutrients between organisms within an ecosystem. It demonstrates how energy is transferred from one organism to another, starting from producers, such as plants, which convert solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis, to various levels of consumers, including herbivores and carnivores. Each step in the food chain represents a different level of consumption and energy transfer, highlighting the interconnectedness of different species and their roles within the ecosystem. By visualizing these relationships, we can better understand the dynamics of energy flow, the roles of different organisms, and the importance of maintaining balance within ecosystems.