Biogeochemical Cycles Flashcard

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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.

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What is the carbon cycle?

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The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged among the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms, involving processes like photosynthesis and respiration.

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What role does photosynthesis play in the carbon cycle?

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Photosynthesis removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and converts it into organic compounds, releasing oxygen as a byproduct.

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What is the impact of excess fertilizer on groundwater?

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Excess fertilizer can leach into groundwater, leading to contamination and promoting algal blooms in water bodies.

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How does deforestation affect atmospheric carbon dioxide levels?

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Deforestation increases atmospheric carbon dioxide levels because fewer trees are available to absorb CO₂ during photosynthesis.

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What is the nitrogen cycle?

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The nitrogen cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, including fixation, nitrification, and denitrification.

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What is the significance of decomposition in biogeochemical cycles?

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Decomposition breaks down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and making them available for new plant growth.

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What is runoff, and how does it affect aquatic ecosystems?

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Runoff is water that flows over land and can carry pollutants into rivers and lakes, negatively impacting aquatic life.

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What is the role of respiration in the carbon cycle?

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Respiration is the process by which organisms convert organic matter into energy, releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

Front

What are algal blooms, and what causes them?

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Algal blooms are rapid increases in algae populations, often caused by nutrient pollution from fertilizers, leading to oxygen depletion in water.