Biogeochemical Cycles

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What is a biogeochemical cycle?

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A biogeochemical cycle is a natural process that recycles nutrients in various chemical forms from the environment to organisms and back to the environment.

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What is nitrogen fixation?

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Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into a form that plants can absorb, such as ammonia (NH3), through natural processes like lightning or biological processes by certain bacteria.

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What role do nitrifying bacteria play in the nitrogen cycle?

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Nitrifying bacteria convert ammonia into nitrites and then into nitrates, making nitrogen available for plant uptake.

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What is photosynthesis?

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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.

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What is assimilation in the context of biogeochemical cycles?

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Assimilation is the process by which living organisms take in nutrients from their environment and incorporate them into their own tissues.

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What is decomposition?

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Decomposition is the process by which organic substances are broken down into simpler organic or inorganic matter, releasing nutrients back into the ecosystem.

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What is denitrification?

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Denitrification is the process by which nitrates are reduced to nitrogen gas (N2) or nitrous oxide (N2O), returning nitrogen to the atmosphere.

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How does carbon enter the atmosphere?

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Carbon enters the atmosphere primarily through processes like respiration, combustion of fossil fuels, and decomposition of organic matter.

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What is the significance of the water cycle in biogeochemical cycles?

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The water cycle is crucial as it transports nutrients and minerals, supports plant growth, and regulates climate.

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What is the role of lightning in the nitrogen cycle?

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Lightning can fix atmospheric nitrogen by converting it into nitrogen oxides, which can then be absorbed by plants.