What are the main steps of the phosphorus cycle?
Weathering, transportation, absorption, decomposition, sedimentation, and geologic uplift.
Describe the process of weathering in the phosphorus cycle.
Rocks break down, releasing phosphate into soil and water.
Describe the process of absorption in the phosphorus cycle.
Plants and animals take up phosphate from soil and water.
Describe the process of decomposition in the phosphorus cycle.
Organic matter decomposes, returning phosphate to soil and water.
Describe the process of sedimentation in the phosphorus cycle.
Phosphate settles at the bottom of water bodies, forming sediments.
Describe the process of geologic uplift in the phosphorus cycle.
Sediments containing phosphate are uplifted to form land.
Describe the process of eutrophication.
Excess nutrients lead to algal blooms, decomposition, and oxygen depletion.
Describe the transportation of phosphorus in the cycle.
Phosphorus moves from land to water via runoff and groundwater.
How does phosphorus move from soil to plants?
Plants absorb phosphorus from the soil through their roots.
How is phosphorus returned to the soil from animals?
Through decomposition of animal waste and remains.
Define phosphate (PO4).
The primary chemical form of phosphorus in the environment.
Define macronutrient.
A nutrient required in large amounts by living organisms.
Define limiting nutrient.
A nutrient that is scarce and limits the growth of organisms.
Define eutrophication.
Excessive nutrient enrichment in a body of water, often leading to algal blooms and oxygen depletion.
Define dead zone.
Areas in water bodies with little to no oxygen, unable to support most aquatic life.
Define weathering.
The breakdown of rocks and minerals through physical, chemical, or biological processes.
Define sedimentation.
The process by which particles settle at the bottom of a liquid, leading to accumulation in water bodies.
Define geologic uplift.
The process by which Earth's surface is raised, often forming mountains.
Define runoff.
The movement of water over land, carrying pollutants and nutrients into water bodies.
Define decomposition.
The breakdown of organic matter by bacteria and fungi, releasing nutrients back into the environment.
Why is phosphorus a limiting nutrient?
It doesn't dissolve easily in water and clings to soil.
What is the main reservoir of phosphorus?
Rocks and ocean sediments.
Why is phosphorus important for living organisms?
Essential for DNA, RNA, and ATP production.
How does the phosphorus cycle differ from the nitrogen cycle?
Phosphorus cycle has minimal atmospheric interaction.
What role does decomposition play in the phosphorus cycle?
Releases phosphorus back into the environment from dead organisms.
What is the role of weathering in the phosphorus cycle?
Breaks down rocks and releases phosphorus into soil and water.
How does sedimentation affect phosphorus availability?
Excess phosphorus settles, becoming unavailable for immediate use.
What is the significance of geologic uplift?
Brings phosphorus from ocean sediments back to land.
What is the primary way phosphorus moves from land to water?
Through runoff and groundwater.
How do organisms obtain phosphorus?
By absorbing it from soil and water.
