Phosphorous cycle

Front

What is the phosphorous cycle?

Back

The phosphorous cycle is the biogeochemical cycle that describes the movement of phosphorus through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. It involves the weathering of rocks, absorption by organisms, and return to the soil through decomposition.

Front

What are the main reservoirs of phosphorus?

Back

The main reservoirs of phosphorus include rocks, soil, and water bodies. The largest reservoir is found in sedimentary rocks.

Front

How do algal blooms relate to the phosphorous cycle?

Back

Algal blooms occur when there is an excess of nutrients, particularly phosphorus, in water bodies, leading to rapid growth of algae.

Front

What is the role of water runoff in the phosphorous cycle?

Back

Water runoff brings phosphorus from land into waterways, often as a result of agricultural practices and urban development.

Front

What impact do decomposers have on the phosphorous cycle?

Back

Decomposers break down organic matter, returning phosphorus to the soil, making it available for plants and other organisms.

Front

What is an algal bloom?

Back

An algal bloom is the rapid increase in the population of algae in water bodies, often triggered by nutrient enrichment.

Front

Why is phosphorus important for living organisms?

Back

Phosphorus is essential for the formation of DNA, RNA, and ATP, which are critical for energy transfer and genetic information.

Front

What human activities can disrupt the phosphorous cycle?

Back

Human activities such as agriculture (fertilizer use), urban runoff, and wastewater discharge can increase phosphorus levels in water bodies, leading to environmental issues.

Front

What are the consequences of excessive phosphorus in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Excessive phosphorus can lead to eutrophication, which causes algal blooms, oxygen depletion, and harm to aquatic life.

Front

How does sedimentation affect the phosphorous cycle?

Back

Sedimentation can trap phosphorus in sediments at the bottom of water bodies, making it unavailable to aquatic organisms until it is released back into the water.