Phosphorous cycle

Front

What is the phosphorus cycle?

Back

The phosphorus cycle is the process by which phosphorus moves through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, primarily through the weathering of rocks and the uptake by living organisms.

Front

What is the primary source of phosphorus in the cycle?

Back

Rock phosphate is the primary source of phosphorus in the phosphorus cycle.

Front

How do plants obtain phosphorus?

Back

Plants absorb phosphorus from the soil in the form of phosphates.

Front

What role do bacteria play in the phosphorus cycle?

Back

Bacteria help to break down organic matter and release phosphates, making them available for plant uptake.

Front

What is atmospheric phosphate?

Back

Atmospheric phosphate refers to phosphorus that is present in the atmosphere, but it is not a significant part of the phosphorus cycle.

Front

What processes are involved in the phosphorus cycle?

Back

The phosphorus cycle involves processes such as weathering, erosion, and the uptake of phosphates by plants.

Front

Is the phosphorus cycle faster or slower than the carbon and nitrogen cycles?

Back

The phosphorus cycle occurs much more slowly than the carbon and nitrogen cycles.

Front

Why does phosphorus cycling occur more locally than carbon cycling?

Back

Phosphorus cycling occurs more locally because it primarily involves the weathering of rocks, which are mostly stationary.

Front

What happens to phosphorus when rocks weather?

Back

When rocks weather, phosphorus is released into the soil and water, where it can be taken up by plants.

Front

What is the significance of phosphates in living organisms?

Back

Phosphates are essential for the formation of DNA, RNA, and ATP, which are crucial for energy transfer and genetic information.