Carbon and Nitrogen Cycles

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

Back

The continuous movement of carbon among the abiotic environment and living things.

Front

What process in the nitrogen cycle involves storms and lightning to move nitrogen gas to the soil?

Back

Nitrogen fixation.

Front

What is denitrification?

Back

The reduction of oxidized forms of nitrogen (nitrates), ultimately resulting in molecular nitrogen.

Front

How do animals obtain nitrogen for biological molecules?

Back

By consuming other organisms.

Front

Which gas is most abundant in the atmosphere?

Back

Nitrogen gas.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

The process of converting nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into a form that plants can absorb and use.

Front

What role do decomposers play in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Decomposers break down organic matter, releasing nitrogen back into the soil.

Front

What is the significance of the carbon cycle in ecosystems?

Back

It regulates the flow of carbon, which is essential for life, through photosynthesis and respiration.

Front

What is ammonification?

Back

The process of converting organic nitrogen from dead organisms into ammonia.

Front

What is nitrification?

Back

The process of converting ammonia into nitrates, which plants can absorb.