Phosphorus Cycle

Question 1

step 1

Answer 1

Weathering of uplifted rocks contributes phosphates to the land. Some phosphates make their way back to the ocean.

Question 2

step 2

Answer 2

Phosphate fertilizer applied to fields can run off directly into streams, become part of a soil pool, or be absorbed by plants.

Question 3

step 3

Answer 3

Excretion by animals and decomposition of both plants and animals release phosphates on land or in water.

Question 4

step 4

Answer 4

Dissolved phosphates precipitate out of solution and contribute to ocean sediments. Conversion of sediments into phosphate rocks is a very slow process.

Question 5

step 5

Answer 5

Geologic forces can slowly lift up phosphate rocks from the ocean floor to form mountains.