Carbon and Nitrogen Cycles

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What is the carbon cycle?

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The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged between the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms. It involves processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and combustion.

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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 oxygen and glucose into energy, releasing carbon dioxide as a byproduct back into the atmosphere.

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What is photosynthesis?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen using sunlight.

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What is decomposition?

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Decomposition is the process by which dead organic matter is broken down by decomposers, such as bacteria and fungi, returning nutrients to the soil and releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

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What is combustion?

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Combustion is the process of burning fossil fuels or biomass, which releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

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What is nitrogen fixation?

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

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What is nitrification?

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Nitrification is the process by which ammonia is converted into nitrites and then into nitrates by bacteria in the soil, making nitrogen available to plants.

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What is denitrification?

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Denitrification is the process by which nitrates are converted back into nitrogen gas by bacteria, returning nitrogen to the atmosphere.

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What is ammonification?

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Ammonification is the process by which organic nitrogen from dead organisms and waste is converted into ammonia by decomposers.

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What is assimilation in the nitrogen cycle?

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Assimilation is the process by which plants absorb nitrates from the soil and incorporate them into their own tissues.