Biogeochemical Cycles

Front

What are biogeochemical cycles?

Back

Biogeochemical cycles are natural processes that recycle nutrients in various chemical forms from the environment to organisms and then back to the environment.

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What is the phosphorus cycle?

Back

The phosphorus cycle is the process by which phosphorus moves through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Unlike other cycles, it does not have a significant atmospheric component.

Front

What role does photosynthesis play in the carbon cycle?

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Photosynthesis removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and converts it into organic compounds, which are then used by plants and other organisms.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into ammonia or related compounds in soil, making it available for plants.

Front

How do animals obtain nitrogen?

Back

Animals obtain nitrogen by consuming plants or other animals that contain nitrogen in their organic compounds.

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and transpiration.

Front

What is evaporation in the water cycle?

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Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas or vapor, usually due to heat from the sun.

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What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plant roots, moves through plants, and is released as vapor through pores in leaves.

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What is decomposition?

Back

Decomposition is the process by which organic substances are broken down into simpler organic or inorganic matter, releasing nutrients back into the soil.

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What is combustion?

Back

Combustion is a chemical process in which a substance reacts rapidly with oxygen and releases energy in the form of heat and light, often producing carbon dioxide.