Nutrient Cycles

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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. It involves processes like photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and combustion.

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What are fossil fuels?

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Fossil fuels are natural substances formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals, primarily consisting of carbon. Examples include coal, oil, and natural gas.

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What role do legumes play in the nitrogen cycle?

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Legumes house nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their root nodules, which convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use, enriching the soil.

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What are greenhouse gases?

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Greenhouse gases are gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, contributing to the greenhouse effect. Examples include carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4).

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What are decomposers?

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Decomposers are organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, that break down dead or decaying organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and releasing carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus.

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What is precipitation?

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Precipitation is any form of water, liquid or solid, that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

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How does deforestation impact the carbon cycle?

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Deforestation reduces the number of trees that can absorb CO2, leading to increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere and contributing to climate change.

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What is the role of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert carbon dioxide and sunlight into glucose and oxygen, removing CO2 from the atmosphere.

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What is nitrogen fixation?

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Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into a usable form for plants, primarily carried out by certain bacteria.

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What is the water cycle?

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The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.