Unit 3- Biogeochemical Cycles

Front

What is a biogeochemical cycle?

Back

A biogeochemical cycle is the movement of elements and compounds through living organisms and the physical environment, involving biological, geological, and chemical processes.

Front

What are the main components of the water cycle?

Back

The main components of the water cycle include evaporation, condensation, precipitation, infiltration, and runoff.

Front

What is transpiration in the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which liquid water is converted into water vapor, typically due to heat from the sun.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, from rain or melting snow, that moves across the land surface and eventually enters rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

What is nitrification in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Nitrification is the biological process that converts ammonia (NH₃) into nitrites (NO₂⁻) and then into nitrates (NO₃⁻), which plants can use.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting nitrogen gas (N₂) from the atmosphere into ammonia (NH₃) by certain bacteria, making it available for plants.

Front

How do human activities affect the carbon cycle?

Back

Human activities like deforestation and burning fossil fuels increase carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels in the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.

Front

What is denitrification?

Back

Denitrification is the process by which nitrates (NO₃⁻) are converted back into nitrogen gas (N₂), returning nitrogen to the atmosphere.

Front

What role do decomposers play in biogeochemical cycles?

Back

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