Which set of statements best illustrates a material cycle in a self-sustaing ecosystem?

A material cycle in a self-sustaining ecosystem is best illustrated by the interactions between plants, animals, and decomposers. For example, plants absorb nutrients from the soil and, through photosynthesis, convert sunlight into energy. Animals consume the plants for energy, and when they excrete waste or die, decomposers break down the organic matter, returning essential nutrients to the soil for plants to use again. This continuous flow of materials exemplifies a balanced ecosystem where each component relies on the others for sustainability.