Carbon and Nitrogen Cycles

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. It involves processes like photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and combustion.

Front

How does carbon from plants enter the food chain?

Back

Carbon from plants enters the food chain when herbivores eat the plants, and then carnivores eat the herbivores.

Front

What role do plants play in the carbon cycle?

Back

Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, converting it into organic matter and releasing oxygen.

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Front

What is respiration in the context of the carbon cycle?

Back

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

Front

What is the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, including nitrogen fixation, nitrification, denitrification, and ammonification.

Front

What are denitrifying bacteria?

Back

Denitrifying bacteria are microorganisms that convert nitrates back into nitrogen gas, releasing it into the atmosphere.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process by which certain bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, making it available for plants.

Front

What percentage of the atmosphere is nitrogen?

Back

Approximately 78% of the atmosphere is composed of nitrogen.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, releasing nitrogen back into the soil in the form of ammonium.