Biogeochemical Cycles Flashcard

Front

What is Denitrification?

Back

The process by which bacteria convert nitrates into nitrogen gas, returning it to the atmosphere.

Front

How do humans negatively impact the Carbon Cycle?

Back

Through combustion, which releases CO2 into the atmosphere.

Front

What must occur before precipitation can happen?

Back

Condensation, where water vapor cools and changes into liquid water.

Front

How do fertilizers affect the nitrogen cycle?

Back

They can cause eutrophication, leading to excessive growth of algae in water bodies.

Front

What are the main ways humans impact the water cycle?

Back

Pollution, deforestation, and building on and paving areas.

Front

Define the Carbon Cycle.

Back

The process by which carbon is exchanged among the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms.

Front

What is Eutrophication?

Back

A process where water bodies become overly enriched with nutrients, leading to excessive growth of algae.

Front

Explain the role of evaporation in the water cycle.

Back

Evaporation is the process where water changes from liquid to vapor, contributing to cloud formation.

Front

What is Nitrogen Fixation?

Back

The process of converting nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into ammonia or related compounds in soil.

Front

Describe the Water Cycle.

Back

The continuous movement of water through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.