Carbon, Nitrogen, & Phosphorous Cycles

Front

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers recycle matter and nutrients, breaking down dead organisms and waste, which helps to form fossil fuels and return nutrients to the soil.

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, respiration, and decomposition.

Front

How do living organisms return carbon to the atmosphere in the carbon cycle?

Back

Living organisms return carbon to the atmosphere primarily through decomposition and respiration.

Front

What is the Nitrogen Cycle?

Back

The Nitrogen Cycle is the process through which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, including fixation, nitrification, and denitrification, allowing it to be used by living organisms.

Front

What is the Phosphorus Cycle?

Back

The Phosphorus Cycle is the movement of phosphorus through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, primarily through weathering of rocks and uptake by plants.

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll, converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Front

What is respiration in living organisms?

Back

Respiration is the process by which living organisms convert glucose and oxygen into energy, carbon dioxide, and water.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas or vapor, often occurring from oceans, lakes, and rivers.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plant roots, moves through plants, and is released as water vapor through pores in leaves.

Front

What is the significance of fossil fuels in the carbon cycle?

Back

Fossil fuels, formed from decomposed organic matter, release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere when burned, significantly impacting the carbon cycle.