Biogeochemical Cycles (Nutrient Cycles)

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, using carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen.

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What does the Law of Conservation of Mass state?

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The Law of Conservation of Mass states that matter is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction.

Front

What happens to the matter of a decomposed organism?

Back

When an organism decomposes, 100% of its matter is either used by decomposers or returned to the Earth.

Front

Where does the carbon in fossil fuels come from?

Back

The carbon in fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas comes from the remains of dead organisms that have been subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years.

Front

What cycle do fossil fuels belong to?

Back

Fossil fuels are part of the carbon cycle.

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

Back

The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged among the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms, involving processes like photosynthesis, respiration, and decomposition.

Front

What role do decomposers play in nutrient cycles?

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

Front

What is cellular respiration?

Back

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

Front

How do plants contribute to the carbon cycle?

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Plants contribute to the carbon cycle by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis.

Front

What is 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.