Biogeochemical Cycles

Front

What are biogeochemical cycles?

Back

Biogeochemical cycles are natural processes that recycle nutrients in various chemical forms from the environment to organisms and back to the environment.

Front

Name the four main biogeochemical cycles.

Back

The four main biogeochemical cycles are the water cycle, carbon cycle, nitrogen cycle, and phosphorus cycle.

Front

Which biogeochemical cycle does NOT involve the atmosphere?

Back

The phosphorus cycle does not cycle through the atmosphere.

Front

What is the primary gas in the Earth's atmosphere?

Back

Nitrogen makes up about 75% of the Earth's atmosphere.

Front

What role do fossil fuels play in the carbon cycle?

Back

Fossil fuels, such as oil, coal, and natural gas, are part of the carbon cycle as they release carbon dioxide when burned.

Front

What is denitrification?

Back

Denitrification is the process by which bacteria convert nitrates (NO3-) into nitrogen gas (N2), returning it to the atmosphere.

Front

What is the process of nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonia (NH3) by certain bacteria, making nitrogen available to plants.

Front

How does the water cycle contribute to the ecosystem?

Back

The water cycle provides essential water for plants and animals, regulates climate, and supports various ecological processes.

Front

What is the significance of the carbon cycle?

Back

The carbon cycle is crucial for regulating Earth's climate and providing carbon, a key element for all living organisms.

Front

What are the main processes involved in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The main processes in the nitrogen cycle include nitrogen fixation, nitrification, assimilation, ammonification, and denitrification.