Biogeochemical Cycles

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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 nitrogen fixation, nitrification, denitrification, and ammonification, allowing nitrogen to be reused in ecosystems.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-3

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What is nitrogen fixation?

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Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonia (NH3) or related compounds in soil, making nitrogen available for plants.

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What is ammonification?

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

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NGSS.MS-LS2-3

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What is leaching in the context of biogeochemical cycles?

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Leaching is the process by which soluble nutrients, such as phosphorus, are washed out of the soil and into water bodies.

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What is diffusion in the carbon cycle?

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Diffusion is the process by which carbon dioxide (CO2) is absorbed from the atmosphere into the ocean and released back into the atmosphere.

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What role do decomposers play in biogeochemical cycles?

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

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NGSS.MS-LS2-3

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What is the importance of biogeochemical cycles?

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Biogeochemical cycles are essential for recycling nutrients in ecosystems, ensuring that essential elements are available for living organisms.

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What is 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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What is assimilation in the nitrogen cycle?

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Assimilation is the process by which plants and animals incorporate nitrogen from the soil into their own tissues.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-3

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What is the phosphorus cycle?

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The phosphorus cycle is the movement of phosphorus through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, primarily through weathering, absorption by plants, and runoff.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-3