Phosphorus Cycle

Question 1

Weathering

Answer 1

The chemical and physical breakdown of rocks. In this cycle, weathering causes phosphate ions to be released.

Question 2

Surface Runoff & Fertilizer Runoff

Answer 2

Phosphate ions can dissolve in water. They are transported in surface Runoff to waterways. Fertilizers spread on crops contain phosphates that can also wash into waterways.

Question 3

Decomposition

Answer 3

Decomposers, such as fungi or bacteria, recycle phosphates from dead organisms

Question 4

Sedimentation

Answer 4

Dead marine organisms can get compacted by sediment- over thousands of years, this can form sedimentary rocks.

Question 5

Uplift

Answer 5

A geological process that moves rocks from water back onto land.