Flashcard: Cycles 24--Honors Bio

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What is the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, including atmospheric nitrogen (N2), ammonia (NH3), nitrites (NO2-), nitrates (NO3-), and organic nitrogen compounds. This cycle is essential for life as it provides the necessary nitrogen for the synthesis of amino acids and nucleic acids.

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What role do decomposers play in the ecosystem?

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Decomposers break down dead organic matter and waste products, recycling nutrients back into the soil, which supports plant growth and maintains ecosystem health.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

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Why can't humans use atmospheric nitrogen directly?

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Humans cannot use atmospheric nitrogen directly because we lack the necessary enzymes to break the strong triple bond between nitrogen atoms in N2.

Front

What are greenhouse gases?

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Greenhouse gases are gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). They contribute to the greenhouse effect and global warming.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS2-6

NGSS.HS-ESS3-5

Front

What is the significance of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

Back

Carbon dioxide is a key greenhouse gas that contributes to the greenhouse effect, leading to global warming. It is also essential for photosynthesis in plants.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS3-5

NGSS.HS-LS1-5

NGSS.HS-LS2-5

Front

Define nitrogen fixation.

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process by which atmospheric nitrogen (N2) is converted into ammonia (NH3) or related compounds in soil, primarily by nitrogen-fixing bacteria.

Front

What is the difference between nitrification and denitrification?

Back

Nitrification is the process of converting ammonia into nitrites and then nitrates, while denitrification is the conversion of nitrates back into nitrogen gas (N2), returning it to the atmosphere.

Front

What is calcium carbonate and where is it found?

Back

Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) is a chemical compound found in rocks, shells of marine organisms, and as a major component of limestone and chalk.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS2-6

Front

What are the main components of the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The main components of the nitrogen cycle include nitrogen fixation, nitrification, assimilation, ammonification, and denitrification.

Front

Explain the term 'biogeochemical cycle'.

Back

A biogeochemical cycle is the movement of elements and compounds through biological, geological, and chemical processes in the environment.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS2-6