Cycles of Matter

Front

What is the atmosphere?

Back

The atmosphere is the layer of gases surrounding the Earth, primarily composed of nitrogen and oxygen, where weather occurs and carbon dioxide is released from burning fossil fuels.

Front

What causes algal blooms?

Back

Algal blooms occur when there is an increase in nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, in the water, leading to rapid growth of algae.

Front

What gas do producers take in during photosynthesis?

Back

Producers take in carbon dioxide during photosynthesis to produce glucose and oxygen.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, often from rain, that moves across the land and can carry nutrients and pollutants into waterways.

Front

What can happen to organisms that do not decompose?

Back

Organisms that do not decompose can be buried over time and become fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, or natural gas.

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, involving processes like photosynthesis and respiration.

Front

What role do decomposers play in the cycles of matter?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of phosphorus in ecosystems?

Back

Phosphorus is a key nutrient for plants and is essential for energy transfer and genetic material in living organisms.

Front

How does precipitation affect the cycles of matter?

Back

Precipitation contributes to the water cycle and can transport nutrients from the atmosphere to the soil and waterways.

Front

What is nutrient cycling?

Back

Nutrient cycling is the movement and exchange of organic and inorganic matter back into the production of living matter, essential for ecosystem sustainability.