Nutrient Cycles Review

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, using carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen.

Front

What is the role of condensation in the water cycle?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor cools and changes into liquid water, forming clouds in the atmosphere.

Front

What are the main stages of the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The main stages of the nitrogen cycle include nitrogen fixation, nitrification, assimilation, ammonification, and denitrification.

Front

What is an algal bloom?

Back

An algal bloom is a rapid increase in the population of algae in water bodies, often due to excess nutrients, which can lead to oxygen depletion.

Front

How does deforestation affect carbon dioxide levels?

Back

Deforestation reduces the number of trees that absorb carbon dioxide, leading to an increase in CO2 levels in the atmosphere.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the warming of Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of decomposers in nutrient cycles?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem, which supports plant growth.

Front

What is the difference between a limiting nutrient and a non-limiting nutrient?

Back

A limiting nutrient is one that is in short supply and restricts growth, while a non-limiting nutrient is abundant and does not limit growth.

Front

What happens during nitrification?

Back

Nitrification is the process by which ammonia is converted into nitrites and then into nitrates by bacteria, making nitrogen available to plants.