Biogeochemical Cycles

Front

What is a biotic factor in an ecosystem?

Back

A biotic factor is a living component of an ecosystem, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms.

Front

What is an abiotic factor in an ecosystem?

Back

An abiotic factor is a non-living component of an ecosystem, such as soil, sunlight, and temperature.

Front

What are the main processes of the water cycle?

Back

The main processes of the water cycle include evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and transpiration.

Front

What is freezing in the context of the water cycle?

Back

Freezing is the process where water changes from a liquid to a solid state, but it is not a primary process of the water cycle.

Front

Why do living things need nitrogen?

Back

Living things need nitrogen to make proteins and amino acids, which are essential for growth and development.

Front

What role do bacteria play in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Bacteria convert nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into a usable form for plants and animals through a process called nitrogen fixation.

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

Back

The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged between the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms.

Front

How do fossil fuels relate to the carbon cycle?

Back

Fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas are formed from the remains of dead organisms and release carbon dioxide when burned.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plants and released as water vapor into the atmosphere.

Front

What is the significance of decomposition in ecosystems?

Back

Decomposition is the process by which dead organic matter is broken down, returning nutrients to the soil and supporting new plant growth.