Sulphur Cycle Flashcards
What is the primary source of sulfur in the environment?
Volcanic eruptions and human activities such as burning fossil fuels.
True or False: Sulfur is an essential element for all living organisms.
True
Fill in the blank: The process by which sulfur compounds are converted to sulfate ions in the soil is called __________.
sulfate mineralization
What are the main forms of sulfur present in the atmosphere?
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S).
Which bacteria are primarily involved in the oxidation of sulfur compounds?
Thiobacillus and other sulfur-oxidizing bacteria.
What is the role of sulfate-reducing bacteria in the sulfur cycle?
They convert sulfate into hydrogen sulfide.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a step in the sulfur cycle? A) Mineralization B) Assimilation C) Photosynthesis D) Volatilization
C) Photosynthesis
What is the term for the process by which plants absorb sulfur?
Assimilation
True or False: Sulfur can be found in the Earth’s crust in the form of sulfide minerals.
True
What is the significance of sulfur in proteins?
Sulfur is a key component of amino acids such as cysteine and methionine.
Fill in the blank: The conversion of organic sulfur to inorganic forms is known as __________.
mineralization
What human activities significantly alter the sulfur cycle?
Burning fossil fuels and industrial processes.
Multiple Choice: Which compound is a major contributor to acid rain? A) Carbon dioxide B) Nitrogen oxides C) Sulfur dioxide D) Methane
C) Sulfur dioxide
What is the final step of the sulfur cycle that returns sulfur to the atmosphere?
The release of hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide from decomposition and volcanic eruptions.
What is the role of decomposers in the sulfur cycle?
They break down organic matter, releasing sulfur back into the soil and atmosphere.
