Cycling of Matter in Ecosystems

Front

Ecosystem

Back

A community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment.

Front

Matter Cycle

Back

The movement of matter through living and nonliving components of an ecosystem.

Front

Biogeochemical Cycle

Back

The natural circulation of elements like carbon, nitrogen, and water through the biosphere, lithosphere, atmosphere, and hydrosphere.

Front

Carbon Cycle

Back

The process by which carbon moves between the atmosphere, organisms, oceans, and soil through respiration, photosynthesis, decomposition, and combustion.

Front

Nitrogen Cycle

Back

The movement of nitrogen through the atmosphere, soil, and living organisms, including processes like nitrogen fixation, nitrification, and denitrification.

Front

Water Cycle

Back

The continuous movement of water through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Front

Oxygen Cycle

Back

The movement of oxygen through the atmosphere, biosphere, and lithosphere, mainly driven by photosynthesis and respiration.

Front

Decomposition

Back

The breakdown of dead organisms and waste by decomposers, returning nutrients to the soil.

Front

Decomposers

Back

Organisms like bacteria and fungi that break down organic material and recycle nutrients.

Front

Photosynthesis

Back

The process by which plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce oxygen and glucose.