Carbon, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Water Cycle 9 Flashcards
What are the 4 main processes that cycle carbon in the ecosystem?
- Photosynthesis: absorb CO2
- Cellular respiration: release CO2
- Decomposition: break down cellulose
- Ocean processes: water rises and release CO2
List the three long main term stores of carbon
- Middle/ lower ocean layers
- Coal/oil/gas deposits
- Ocean sediments
List the 4 main processes that cycle nitrogen in the ecosystem
Nitrogen fixation: convert nitrogen (N2) to nitrate NO - 3) and ammonium (NH + 4)
Nitrification: soil bacteria converts ammonium to nitrite then to nitrates
Decay: herbivore dies and releases nitrogen
Denitrification: nitrates converted back to N2 from denitrifying bacteria
Where is the main store of nitrogen?
Atmosphere
What is leaching and eutrophication?
Leaching: loss of nitrate as water drains through soil
Eutrophication: nitrogen washes into waterways, adding too much nutrients
What are 3 human activities that are affecting the nitrogen cycle?
- Burning fossil fuel
- Agriculture
- Overuse of fertilizer
Why is phosphorus important? Name 3 reasons
- Carries energy in living cells
- Growth of roots and stem strength
- Strong bones
How is phosphorus cycled in the ecosystem?
Weathering: releases phosphites
Physical weathering: wind, water freezing, releases phosphates
Chemical weathering: lichen and acid precipitation release phosphate
Where is phosphorus stored?
Rocks and sediments of the ocean floor
What human activities have a negative impact on the phosphorus cycle?
Sewage waste, pollution
What is transpiration?
Water enters through roots, travels upward through tubes made out of dead cells and evaporate through pores found in leaves
How does water cycle?
The sun evaporates the water, atmosphere condenses into clouds then it rains.
It can evaporate or the ground absorbs the water
