Earth's Cycles

Front

What is assimilation in the context of Earth's cycles?

Back

Assimilation is the process by which plants absorb usable nitrates from the soil through their roots.

Front

Define the carbon cycle.

Back

The carbon cycle is the process that involves the circulation of carbon between living (biotic) and nonliving (abiotic) parts of an ecosystem.

Front

True or False: The nitrogen in the atmosphere is in a usable form for living organisms.

Back

False. Nitrogen in the atmosphere is not in a usable form and cannot be directly absorbed by living things.

Front

What is denitrification?

Back

Denitrification is the process by which bacteria in the soil convert extra nitrates back into atmospheric nitrogen, allowing it to reenter the atmosphere.

Front

What process releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere when burning substances?

Back

Combustion is the process that releases CO2 into the atmosphere when burning substances like wood and fossil fuels.

Front

What is nitrification?

Back

Nitrification is the process by which bacteria convert ammonia into nitrates in the soil.

Front

Explain the role of photosynthesis in Earth's cycles.

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert carbon dioxide and sunlight into glucose and oxygen, playing a crucial role in the carbon cycle.

Front

What is the significance of the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is essential for converting nitrogen from the atmosphere into forms usable by living organisms, thus supporting life.

Front

Define ammonification.

Back

Ammonification is the process by which organic nitrogen is converted into ammonia by bacteria and fungi in the soil.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in Earth's cycles?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and facilitating nutrient cycling.