Cycles of Matter

Front

What is the process by which carbon enters the biotic environment?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which carbon dioxide is absorbed by plants and converted into organic compounds.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the evaporation of water from the leaves of plants into the atmosphere.

Front

Why must matter travel through cycles?

Back

There is a fixed amount of matter in the universe, so it must take on different forms at different times.

Front

How does lightning contribute to nitrogen fixation?

Back

Lightning energy blasts nitrogen molecules apart, allowing them to bond with oxygen and form nitrates.

Front

What are amino acids?

Back

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, made from water, carbon, and nitrogen.

Front

Define the carbon cycle.

Back

The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged between the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms.

Front

What role do decomposers play in the cycles of matter?

Back

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

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and infiltration.

Front

Explain the nitrogen cycle.

Back

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

Front

What is cellular respiration?

Back

Cellular respiration is the process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide and water.