Biogeochemical cycles

Front

What is a biogeochemical cycle?

Back

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

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What are the main components of biogeochemical cycles?

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The main components are biotic (living organisms) and abiotic (non-living elements like water, air, and minerals) factors.

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What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into a form that plants can absorb and use, typically ammonia (NH3).

Front

What is the role of decomposers in biogeochemical cycles?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and making them available for plants.

Front

What is runoff in the context of the nitrogen cycle?

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Runoff is the process where excess nitrogen from fertilizers is washed away by rainwater into local water bodies.

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How do fossil fuels relate to the carbon cycle?

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Fossil fuels are formed from ancient organic matter and release carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere when burned, contributing to the carbon cycle.

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What is the largest reservoir of carbon on Earth?

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The largest reservoir of carbon is found in the Earth's crust, primarily in the form of fossil fuels and sedimentary rocks.

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What is the phosphorus cycle?

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The phosphorus cycle is the process by which phosphorus moves through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, primarily through weathering of rocks.

Front

Why is the atmosphere considered the largest reservoir for nitrogen?

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The atmosphere is composed of about 78% nitrogen gas (N2), making it the largest reservoir of nitrogen on Earth.

Front

What is ammonification?

Back

Ammonification is the process by which organic nitrogen from dead organisms is converted into ammonia (NH3) by decomposers.