Nutrient Cycles

Front

What is the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, including nitrogen fixation, nitrification, denitrification, and ammonification, allowing nitrogen to be used by living organisms.

Front

Why can't plants use atmospheric nitrogen directly?

Back

Plants cannot use atmospheric nitrogen directly because it exists as a diatomic molecule (N2) that is not reactive. They rely on nitrogen-fixing bacteria to convert it into usable forms like ammonia.

Front

What role do plants play in the carbon cycle?

Back

Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, converting it into glucose and releasing oxygen.

Front

How do animals contribute to the carbon cycle?

Back

Animals contribute to the carbon cycle by giving off carbon dioxide through respiration, which is then used by plants for photosynthesis.

Front

What is one major way carbon dioxide is released back into the atmosphere?

Back

One major way carbon dioxide is released back into the atmosphere is through the burning of fossil fuels.

Front

What process allows carbon dioxide to enter the food chain?

Back

Carbon dioxide enters the food chain through photosynthesis, where plants convert CO2 into 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 infiltration.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in nutrient cycles?

Back

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

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonia (NH3) or related compounds in soil, primarily by certain bacteria.

Front

What is the significance of the phosphorous cycle?

Back

The phosphorous cycle is crucial for the growth of plants and animals, as phosphorus is a key component of DNA, RNA, and ATP.