EnvSci Biogeochemical Cycles

Used to make DNA, RNA, and phospholipids - main component of cell membranes

• phosphorus

• water

• carbon

• nitrogen

An important solvent - dissolves and transports chemicals within the body

• phosphorus

• water

• carbon

• nitrogen

The "backbone" of all organic molecules that make up living things.

• phosphorus

• water

• carbon

• nitrogen

Used to make DNA, RNA, and proteins

• phosphorus

• water

• carbon

• nitrogen

Identify the ways that carbon is added to the atmosphere (choose 3)

• burning of fossil fuels

• photosynthesis

• cellular respiration

• by being dissolved into aquatic systems

• decomposition of organic matter

Identify the ways that carbon is removed from the atmosphere (choose 2)

• burning of fossil fuels

• photosynthesis

• cellular respiration

• by being dissolved into aquatic systems

• decomposition of organic matter

Which of the following cycles involves eutrophication? (choose 2)

• carbon

• water

• phosphorus

• nitrogen

Process in which a body of water receives excessive nutrients leading to an overpopulation of algae.

• algal bloom

• decomposition

• eutrophication

• assimilation

An overpopulation of algae.

• algal bloom

• decomposition

• eutrophication

• assimilation

Process of bacteria converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants

• nitrogen fixation

• decomposition

• assimilation

• eutrophication