Cycling of Matter Review

Front

What is the atmosphere?

Back

The atmosphere is the layer of gases surrounding the Earth, essential for life and weather processes.

Front

What process converts nitrogen into ammonia?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process by which nitrogen in the atmosphere is converted into ammonia by bacteria.

Front

What is a food chain?

Back

A food chain is a linear representation of energy transfer in an ecosystem, showing how energy moves from one organism to another.

Front

Which element is NOT found in the atmosphere?

Back

Phosphorus is not found in the atmosphere; it is primarily found in soil and water.

Front

What are producers in an energy pyramid?

Back

Producers, also known as autotrophs, are organisms that create their own food through photosynthesis and are located at the bottom of the energy pyramid.

Front

What is the biosphere?

Back

The biosphere is the global sum of all ecosystems, where life exists, including land, water, and the atmosphere.

Front

Define nitrogen fixation.

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for plants, primarily ammonia.

Front

What is the hydrosphere?

Back

The hydrosphere encompasses all water on Earth, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and water vapor in the atmosphere.

Front

What is a food web?

Back

A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem, illustrating how energy and nutrients flow between organisms.

Front

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil and supporting plant growth.