Cycles of Matter

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas (water vapor) due to heat.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process by which water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

Precipitation is any form of water, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, that falls from clouds to the Earth's surface.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the atmosphere through small openings in their leaves.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into a form that plants can use, primarily through the action of bacteria and lightning.

Front

What are nitrates?

Back

Nitrates are compounds that contain nitrogen and oxygen, which are essential nutrients for plants.

Front

What role do decomposers play in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, releasing nitrogen back into the soil in a form that plants can absorb.

Front

What gas makes up 78% of our atmosphere?

Back

Nitrogen.

Front

What is the role of bacteria in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Bacteria play a crucial role in nitrogen fixation and the decomposition of organic matter, helping to convert nitrogen into forms usable by plants.