Cycles in Nature: Nitrogen, Carbon, Water

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What is the nitrogen cycle?

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The nitrogen cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, including atmospheric nitrogen, organic nitrogen, and inorganic nitrogen, making it available for use by living organisms.

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What role do bacteria play in the nitrogen cycle?

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Bacteria are essential in the nitrogen cycle as they convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms that plants can use, such as ammonia and nitrates, through processes like nitrogen fixation and nitrification.

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Where can nitrogen be found in nature?

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Nitrogen can be found in the atmosphere, in DNA, and in proteins, making it a crucial element for all living organisms.

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What is the carbon cycle?

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

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How does carbon exist in the atmosphere?

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Carbon exists in the atmosphere primarily as carbon dioxide (CO2), which is a greenhouse gas that plays a significant role in regulating Earth's temperature.

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What is the water cycle?

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The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth, involving processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and infiltration.

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What is photosynthesis?

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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 is respiration in the context of the carbon cycle?

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Respiration is the process by which living organisms convert glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts, thus returning carbon to the atmosphere.

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What is nitrogen fixation?

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Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonia (NH3) or related compounds in soil, making nitrogen available for plants.

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What is denitrification?

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Denitrification is the process by which bacteria convert nitrates in the soil back into atmospheric nitrogen (N2), completing the nitrogen cycle.

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