Carbon and Nitrogen Cycles

Front

What is the Carbon Cycle?

Back

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

Front

What role do greenhouse gases play in the Earth's temperature?

Back

Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to an increase in the Earth's average temperature.

Front

Define primary consumer.

Back

A primary consumer is an organism that eats producers (plants) to obtain energy. Examples include herbivores like rabbits and deer.

Front

What is respiration in the context of the carbon cycle?

Back

Respiration is the process by which living organisms convert oxygen and glucose into energy, releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

Front

What is the significance of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert carbon dioxide and sunlight into glucose and oxygen, playing a crucial role in removing CO2 from the atmosphere.

Front

What is the Nitrogen Cycle?

Back

The Nitrogen Cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, including fixation, nitrification, denitrification, and ammonification.

Front

Explain the term 'predator/prey relationship'.

Back

A predator/prey relationship is an interaction where one organism (the predator) hunts and consumes another organism (the prey) for food.

Front

What is decomposition in the carbon cycle?

Back

Decomposition is the process by which dead organic matter is broken down by decomposers, releasing carbon back into the soil and atmosphere.

Front

What is the role of nitrogen-fixing bacteria?

Back

Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, making it available for plants to use in their growth.

Front

Define mutualism.

Back

Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship where both organisms benefit from the interaction, such as bees pollinating flowers while obtaining nectar.