Biogeochemical Cycles

A biogeochemical cycle is the movement of elements and compounds through living organisms and the physical environment, involving biological, geological, and chemical processes.

The phosphorus cycle describes the movement of phosphorus through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, primarily through weathering of rocks, absorption by plants, and consumption by animals.

Carbon is released into the atmosphere through processes such as combustion, respiration, and decomposition.

Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, converting it into organic matter.

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

Animals obtain nitrogen by consuming plants or other animals that contain nitrogen compounds.

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

Decomposition breaks down dead organisms, returning nutrients to the soil and making them available for plants.

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.

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.