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.

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What are the main components of the carbon cycle?

Back

The main components of the carbon cycle include carbon fixation by plants, respiration by animals, decomposition, and combustion of fossil fuels.

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll, converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Front

What role do decomposers play in biogeochemical cycles?

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Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and making them available for uptake by plants.

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What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into a form that plants can absorb, such as ammonia (NH3), often facilitated by bacteria.

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What is the largest reservoir of carbon on Earth?

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The largest reservoir of carbon on Earth is the ocean, which absorbs a significant amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

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What is the water cycle?

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

Front

What is the significance of the sun in the water cycle?

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The sun provides the energy necessary for evaporation, driving the water cycle by converting liquid water into vapor.

Front

What is the process of cellular respiration?

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Cellular respiration is the process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy, carbon dioxide, and water, releasing energy for cellular activities.

Front

What are nitrates and their importance in the nitrogen cycle?

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Nitrates are compounds that contain nitrogen and are essential nutrients for plants, formed through the process of nitrification in the nitrogen cycle.