Biogeochemical Cycles for Ecology

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What is a biogeochemical cycle?

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

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What is nitrogen fixation?

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Nitrogen fixation is the process by which nitrogen gas (N2) is converted into ammonia (NH3) or related compounds in soil, making nitrogen available to plants.

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What role do decomposers play in the nitrogen cycle?

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Decomposers break down dead organisms and waste, converting organic nitrogen back into ammonium (NH4+), which can be used by plants.

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What is ammonification?

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Ammonification is the process by which decomposers convert organic nitrogen from dead organisms and waste into ammonium (NH4+).

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What is nitrification?

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Nitrification is the process by which ammonium (NH4+) is converted into nitrites (NO2-) and then into nitrates (NO3-) by bacteria.

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What is the significance of legumes in the nitrogen cycle?

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Legumes host nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their root nodules, which convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for the plant, benefiting both the plant and the bacteria.

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What is the process of denitrification?

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Denitrification is the process by which nitrates (NO3-) are converted back into nitrogen gas (N2), returning nitrogen to the atmosphere.

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How does phosphorus move through the ecosystem?

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Phosphorus moves through the ecosystem primarily through weathering of rocks, absorption by plants, and then through the food chain.

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What is geological uplift?

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Geological uplift is the process that raises landforms, bringing phosphorus from the ground to the surface, where it can be eroded.

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What is photosynthesis?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) and water into glucose and oxygen.

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