Biogeochemical Cycles Flashcard

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What is the carbon cycle?

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The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged among the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms. It involves processes like photosynthesis, respiration, and decomposition.

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What is transpiration?

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Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plants from the soil, moves through plants, and is released as water vapor into the atmosphere.

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How do plants contribute to the carbon cycle?

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Plants contribute to the carbon cycle through photosynthesis, where they absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it into glucose and oxygen.

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What is cellular respiration?

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Cellular respiration is the process by which living organisms convert glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.

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What human activities negatively impact the carbon cycle?

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Human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes increase carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, disrupting the carbon cycle.

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What is the nitrogen cycle?

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The nitrogen cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, including fixation, nitrification, and denitrification, involving both living organisms and the environment.

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How do bacteria participate in the nitrogen cycle?

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Bacteria play crucial roles in the nitrogen cycle through processes like nitrogen fixation (converting atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia) and ammonification (decomposing organic matter to release ammonia).

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What is the role of animals in the nitrogen cycle?

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Animals contribute to the nitrogen cycle by consuming plants and other animals, excreting waste that contains nitrogen, which can be converted back into usable forms by bacteria.

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What is the significance of decomposition in biogeochemical cycles?

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Decomposition is essential in biogeochemical cycles as it breaks down dead organic matter, returning nutrients like nitrogen and carbon to the soil and atmosphere, making them available for new life.

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What is the water cycle?

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The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and transpiration.