Chapter 22

Question 1

The study of the physical, chemical, and biological factors that influence the movements and transformations of chemical elements.

Answer 1

Biogeochemistry

Question 2

The area in a terrestrial ecosystem that is drained by a single stream; a common unit of study in terrestrial ecosystem studies; also called a watershed.

Answer 2

Catchment

Question 3

The physical and chemical breakdown of detritus by detritivores, leading to the release of nutrients as simple, soluble organic and inorganic compounds that can be taken up by other organisms.

Answer 3

Decomposition

Question 4

A change in the nutrient status of an ecosystem from nutrient-poor to nutrient-rich; such changes occur naturally in some lakes due to the accumulation of sediments, but they may also be caused by nutrient inputs that result from human activities.

Answer 4

Eutrophication

Question 5

The vertical movement of dissolved matter and fine mineral particles from upper to lower layers of soil.

Answer 5

Leaching

Question 6

The cyclic movement of nutrients between organisms and the physical environment.

Answer 6

Nutrient Cycle

Question 7

A chemical element required by an organism for its metabolism and growth.

Answer 7

Nutrient

Question 8

The rock or sediments that are broken down by weathering to form mineral particles in soil.

Answer 8

Parent Material

Question 9

The total amount of a nutrient or other element found within a component of an ecosystem.

Answer 9

Pool

Question 10

The physical and chemical processes by which rock minerals are broken down, eventually releasing soluble nutrients and other elements.

Answer 10

Weathering