Biogeochemical Cycles

Front

What is a biogeochemical cycle?

Back

A biogeochemical cycle is the movement of elements and compounds through biological (living organisms), geological (earth), and chemical (atmosphere and water) processes.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process by which nitrogen gas (N2) from the atmosphere is converted into ammonia (NH3) or related compounds in soil, making nitrogen available for plants.

Front

What is denitrification?

Back

Denitrification is the process by which bacteria convert nitrates (NO3-) and nitrites (NO2-) back into nitrogen gas (N2), returning it to the atmosphere.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plant roots, moves through plants, and is released as water vapor through pores in leaves.

Front

What role do bacteria play in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Bacteria play crucial roles in the nitrogen cycle, including nitrogen fixation, nitrification, and denitrification, facilitating the conversion of nitrogen into forms usable by plants.

Front

What is nitrification?

Back

Nitrification is the biological process in which ammonia (NH3) is converted into nitrites (NO2-) and then into nitrates (NO3-) by bacteria.

Front

How do human activities affect biogeochemical cycles?

Back

Human activities, such as agriculture, deforestation, and pollution, can disrupt biogeochemical cycles by altering the natural flow of nutrients and increasing the levels of certain compounds in the environment.

Front

What is ammonification?

Back

Ammonification is the process by which organic nitrogen from dead organisms and waste is converted into ammonia (NH3) by decomposer bacteria.

Front

What is the significance of biogeochemical cycles?

Back

Biogeochemical cycles are essential for recycling nutrients in ecosystems, supporting life by ensuring the availability of essential elements like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus.

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

Back

The carbon cycle is the series of processes by which carbon compounds are interconverted in the environment, including photosynthesis, respiration, and decomposition.