The Cycling of Life: Understanding the Carbon, Water, and Organic Material Cycles in Ecosystems

The video discusses the recycling of materials in ecosystems, focusing on the carbon and water cycles. It explains how carbon is cycled through photosynthesis, respiration, and decomposition, and how water is cycled through evaporation, condensation, and precipitation. The importance of maintaining these cycles for ecosystem stability is highlighted, along with the impact of disturbances. Decomposition is explored, including the role of decomposers and factors affecting decay rates.

What is the primary role of plants in the carbon cycle?

• To release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere

• To decompose organic matter

• To convert carbon dioxide into oxygen

• To remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis

How does the removal of trees affect the carbon cycle?

• It has no effect on the carbon cycle

• It increases the amount of carbon compounds available to organisms

• It decreases the carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere

• It disrupts the balance of carbon compounds and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere

What initiates the water cycle?

• Condensation of water vapor

• Evaporation of water from large bodies of water

• Absorption of water by plant roots

• Precipitation of rain

What is a consequence of removing large volumes of water from lakes and rivers?

• No impact on the water cycle

• Reduced water in the atmosphere leading to less precipitation

• More water available for organisms

• Increased precipitation

What is a byproduct of anaerobic decay?

• Nitrogen

• Oxygen

• Methane gas

• Carbon dioxide