Phosphorus cycle

Question 1

Step 1

Answer 1

Phosphate released from rocks after a period of raining/weathering. The (inorganic) phosphate is distributed in soils and water

Question 2

Step 2

Answer 2

Plants take up this inorganic phosphate (from soil) - consumed by animals = phosphate absorbed by organic molecules (DNA)- animal dies phosphate returned to soil

Question 3

Step 3

Answer 3

In soil mineralisation can be apparent- when the organic form of phosphate is accessible to plants due to bacteria, this breaks down organic matter to inorganic forms of phosphorus

Question 4

Step 4

Answer 4

Phosphorus in soil can end up in waterways and eventually into the ocean- where it can be incorporated into sediments