Phosphorus Cycle

Front

What is the phosphorus cycle?

Back

The phosphorus cycle is the process by which phosphorus moves through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, primarily through weathering of rocks, absorption by plants, and return to the soil through decomposition.

Front

How does phosphorus enter the soil?

Back

Phosphorus enters the soil primarily through the weathering of rocks, which releases phosphates into the soil.

Front

What role do plants play in the phosphorus cycle?

Back

Plants absorb phosphates from the soil, which are essential for their growth and development.

Front

What is a major sink for phosphorus?

Back

The major sink for phosphorus is sedimentary rock, where phosphorus is stored for long periods.

Front

What process brings phosphorus into waterways?

Back

Runoff brings phosphorus into waterways, often from agricultural fields and urban areas.

Front

Is the phosphorus cycle fast or slow?

Back

The phosphorus cycle is a slow process compared to other biogeochemical cycles, such as the nitrogen cycle.

Front

What is the significance of phosphates in living organisms?

Back

Phosphates are crucial for energy transfer (ATP), DNA and RNA structure, and cellular function in living organisms.

Front

What happens to phosphorus when plants die?

Back

When plants die, phosphorus is returned to the soil through decomposition, making it available for other plants.

Front

How do human activities impact the phosphorus cycle?

Back

Human activities, such as agriculture and wastewater discharge, can increase phosphorus levels in waterways, leading to eutrophication.

Front

What is eutrophication?

Back

Eutrophication is the process by which water bodies become overly enriched with nutrients, leading to excessive growth of algae and depletion of oxygen.