Biogeochemical Cycles

Front

What is a biogeochemical cycle?

Back

A biogeochemical cycle is the movement of elements and compounds through living organisms and the physical environment, involving biological, geological, and chemical processes.

Front

What is runoff in the water cycle?

Back

Runoff is the stage in the water cycle where water moves from land to rivers, lakes, or oceans, often after precipitation.

Front

Define precipitation.

Back

Precipitation is any form of water that falls from the sky, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

Front

What role do bacteria play in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Bacteria convert nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into a usable form for plants and animals, a process known as nitrogen fixation.

Front

What do decomposers do in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organisms, recycling nutrients back into the soil and supporting new plant growth.

Front

What is combustion?

Back

Combustion is a chemical process that occurs when fossil fuels, like coal, are burned to release energy.

Front

What is evaporation in the water cycle?

Back

Evaporation is the process where water changes from a liquid to a gas, usually due to heat from the sun.

Front

Explain the process of condensation.

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

Back

The carbon cycle is the series of processes by which carbon compounds are interconverted in the environment, involving photosynthesis, respiration, and decomposition.

Front

What is the role of plants in the carbon cycle?

Back

Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, converting it into organic matter.