Cycles of Matter

Front

What gas is released by plants from the process of photosynthesis?

Back

Oxygen is released by plants during photosynthesis.

Front

What organism breaks down dead plants and animals and releases nitrogen back into the atmosphere?

Back

Bacteria are the organisms that decompose dead matter and release nitrogen.

Front

Rain, sleet, snow, and hail are all forms of what?

Back

These are all forms of precipitation.

Front

What explains the long-term portion of the phosphorus cycle?

Back

Phosphorus is stored in rocks and is slowly recycled back into the ecosystem through weathering and erosion.

Front

What is the continuous process by which water moves from Earth's surface to the atmosphere and back?

Back

This process is known as the Water Cycle.

Front

What is the term for the process by which nitrogen is converted into a form usable by plants?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process that converts nitrogen gas into ammonia.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in the nutrient cycle?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organisms, returning nutrients to the soil.

Front

What is evaporation in the water cycle?

Back

Evaporation is the process where water changes from liquid to gas, rising into the atmosphere.

Front

What is condensation in the water cycle?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor cools and changes back into liquid, forming clouds.

Front

What is the significance of the carbon cycle?

Back

The carbon cycle is crucial for regulating Earth's climate and supporting life by cycling carbon through the atmosphere, biosphere, and geosphere.