Biochemical 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

How do plants obtain nitrogen?

Back

Plants obtain nitrogen primarily through the soil in the form of nitrates and ammonium, which are produced by the decomposition of organic matter and the activity of nitrogen-fixing bacteria.

Front

What role do bacteria play in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Bacteria play a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle by converting atmospheric nitrogen into forms that plants can use (nitrogen fixation) and by breaking down organic matter to release nitrogen back into the soil (decomposition).

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, using carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen.

Front

What is cellular respiration?

Back

Cellular respiration is the process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy (ATP), carbon dioxide, and water, essentially the reverse of photosynthesis.

Front

Define the carbon cycle.

Back

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

Front

What is the role of decomposers in the ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and making them available for plants, thus playing a vital role in nutrient cycling.

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the upper part of the mantle, which is involved in tectonic processes.

Front

What is the asthenosphere?

Back

The asthenosphere is the semi-fluid layer of the mantle located beneath the lithosphere, allowing for the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is erosion?

Back

Erosion is the process by which soil and rock are removed from the Earth's surface by natural forces such as wind or water, and transported to another location.