phosphorous cycle Flashcards
why is phosphorous an important biological molecule?
because it’s a compartment of ATP, phospholipids and nucleic acids. Life therefore depends on it constantly being recycled
what is the main reservoir for the phosphorus cycle?
the main reservoir is in mineral form rather than in the atmosphere. Unlike the nitrogen cycle, the phosphorous cycle lacks a gaseous phase altogether.
what form does phosphorous mostly exist as?
phosphorous mostly exists as phosphate ions in the form of sedimentary rock deposits. The phosphorous sedimentary rocks have their origins in the sea but are brought to the surface by the geological uplifting of rocks.
what’s the 1st step in the phosphorous cycle?
dissolved rocks release their phosphorous which is absorbed by plants.
what’s the 2nd step in the phosphorous cycle?
animals consume the plants so phosphorous is transferred to the animal.
what’s the 3rd step in the phosphorous cycle?
excess phosphate ions are excreted by animals and may accumulate in waste.
what’s the 4th step in the phosphorous cycle?
when plants and animals die, decomposers break them down releasing phosphate ions into the soil/water. Some phosphate remains in the bones and so are trapped.
what’s the 5th step in the phosphorous cycle?
phosphate ions released by decomposition and dissolved out of rocks are transported by streams and rivers into lakes and oceans where they form sedimentary rocks, thus completing the cycle.
what are mycorrhizae?
Mycorrhizae are fungi that form symbiotic relationships with the roots of plants. Mycorrhizae help plants absorb inorganic ions and water from the soil.
