AP Biology: Nutrient Cycles

Front

What is the process by which carbon dioxide leaves the atmosphere?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which carbon dioxide is absorbed by plants to produce glucose and oxygen.

Front

What is cellular respiration?

Back

Cellular respiration is the process by which oxygen is consumed and carbon dioxide is produced by cells to generate energy.

Front

What is runoff in the context of the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Runoff is the process by which excess nitrogen from fertilizers is washed into local streams and water bodies.

Front

What does the nitrogen cycle involve?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is a biogeochemical cycle that moves nitrogen between living things, the soil, and the air.

Front

How is carbon dioxide added to the atmosphere?

Back

Carbon dioxide is added to the atmosphere through burning fossil fuels, cellular respiration, and decomposing organic matter.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process by which atmospheric nitrogen is converted into a form usable by living organisms, often by bacteria.

Front

What role do decomposers play in nutrient cycles?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and making them available for plants.

Front

What is the significance of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle?

Back

Photosynthesis is crucial in the carbon cycle as it removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and produces oxygen.

Front

What is the difference between biogeochemical cycles and biological cycles?

Back

Biogeochemical cycles involve the movement of elements through living organisms and the environment, while biological cycles focus solely on living organisms.

Front

What is ammonification?

Back

Ammonification is the process by which organic nitrogen is converted into ammonia by decomposers.