Cycles of Matter

Front

What is the process called when water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water?

Back

Condensation

Front

What is the term for water falling from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail?

Back

Precipitation

Front

What are the two natural processes that convert nitrogen gas into a usable form for plants and animals?

Back

Lightning and bacteria

Front

What is the process by which decomposers break down waste and dead organisms, releasing nitrogen back into the soil?

Back

Decomposition

Front

What human activity is a major contributor to the increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

Back

Factories releasing fossil fuels

Front

What is the term for the continuous movement of water through the environment via evaporation, condensation, and precipitation?

Back

Water Cycle

Front

What is the process called when plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen during photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis

Front

What is the role of bacteria in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Bacteria convert nitrogen gas into forms that plants can use.

Front

What is the term for the process by which nitrogen is converted back into nitrogen gas, returning it to the atmosphere?

Back

Denitrification

Front

What is runoff in the context of the water cycle?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water over land, returning to rivers, lakes, and oceans.