1.6 - THE PHOSPHORUS CYCLE

Question 1

Phosphorus is fairly scarce in the aquatic ecosystems, making it a limiting factor.

All of the following BEST support this claim EXCEPT

a) phosphates are not highly soluble in aquatic ecosystems.
b) fertilizers are frequently used on crops and then become runoff in the aquatic ecosystems.
c) phosphates leach out of the soil into the aquatic ecosystems in trace amounts.
d) phosphorus is found primarily in rocks and soil.

Answer 1

Choice B is the correct answer.

Phosphorus is a limiting factor (also known as a limiting nutrient). These are utrients that are vital for plant growth but are found in very small quantities.