Biogeochemical Cycles

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth, involving processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and transpiration.

Transpiration is the process by which plants lose water vapor through small openings in their leaves called stomata.

Runoff is the flow of water, usually from precipitation, that moves across the land surface and can carry nutrients and pollutants into water bodies.

Nitrogen fixation is the process by which nitrogen gas from the atmosphere is converted into ammonia or related compounds in soil, making it available for plants.

The atmosphere is the largest reservoir for nitrogen.

The phosphorus cycle is the process by which phosphorus moves through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, primarily through rocks, soil, water, and living organisms.

The largest reservoir for the phosphorus cycle is rocks and minerals.

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas or vapor, usually due to heat from the sun.

Condensation is the process by which water vapor in the air cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Bacteria play a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle by facilitating processes such as nitrogen fixation, nitrification, and denitrification.