Biogeochemical Cycles

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process of evaporation of water from the leaves of plants into the atmosphere.

Front

Why is the phosphorus cycle important?

Back

The phosphorus cycle is important because phosphorus is a key component of DNA, which is essential for all living organisms.

Front

How do animals obtain carbon?

Back

Animals obtain carbon by ingesting plants and other animals, which contain carbon compounds.

Front

What process removes CO2 from the atmosphere in the carbon cycle?

Back

Photosynthesis is the only process that removes CO2 from the atmosphere.

Front

Can plants take in nitrogen directly from the air?

Back

FALSE. Plants cannot take in nitrogen directly from the air; they need it to be converted into a usable form by bacteria in the soil.

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth, including processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

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.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process by which nitrogen gas from the atmosphere is converted into ammonia or related compounds in soil, making it available for plants.

Front

What is the role of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle?

Back

Photosynthesis allows plants to convert carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into organic compounds, thus reducing atmospheric CO2 levels.

Front

What is the significance of the carbon cycle?

Back

The carbon cycle is significant because it regulates Earth's climate and is essential for life, as carbon is a fundamental building block of organic molecules.