Biogeochemical Cycles

Front

What is a biogeochemical cycle?

Back

A biogeochemical cycle is a natural process that recycles nutrients in various chemical forms from the environment to organisms and back to the environment.

Front

What role do bacteria play in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Bacteria convert nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into a usable form for plants and animals through processes like nitrogen fixation.

Front

Which nutrient is primarily cycled through the atmosphere?

Back

Carbon is primarily cycled through the atmosphere in processes such as photosynthesis and respiration.

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

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.

Front

What is runoff in the context of the water cycle?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, usually from precipitation, that moves across the ground and can carry nutrients and pollutants into streams and rivers.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process by which nitrogen gas is converted into ammonia or related compounds in soil, making it available for plant uptake.

Front

What is the significance of phosphorus in ecosystems?

Back

Phosphorus is essential for plant growth and is a key component of DNA, RNA, and ATP, but it does not cycle through the atmosphere.

Front

What are fossil fuels and their relation to the carbon cycle?

Back

Fossil fuels are natural substances formed from the remains of ancient organisms, and they release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere when burned, impacting the carbon cycle.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plant roots and then released as vapor through pores in leaves.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and condensation?

Back

Evaporation is the process of liquid water turning into vapor, while condensation is the process of water vapor cooling and turning back into liquid.