APES U1 BGC and PT

Biogeochemical cycles

Processes through which essential nutrients are recycled in ecosystems.

Reservoir

A location where a nutrient is present but temporarily unavailable.

Exchange pool

The primary source of nutrients in a biogeochemical cycle.

Carbon cycle

The movement of carbon atoms and molecules between sources and sinks.

Nitrogen fixation

The process of converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants, primarily ammonia.

Phosphorus cycle

The movement of phosphorus through ecosystems, with no atmospheric component.

Hydrologic cycle

The movement of water in various phases between sources and sinks, powered by the sun.

Convergent boundary

Plate boundary where two plates collide, often creating mountains or subduction zones.

Divergent boundary

Plate boundary where two plates move apart, often resulting in seafloor spreading.

Transform boundary

Plate boundary where two plates slide past each other, causing earthquakes.

Seismic waves

Vibrations that travel through the earth as a result of earthquakes, including P-waves, S-waves, and surface waves.

Elastic Rebound Hypothesis

Theory stating that rocks under stress will eventually shift or break, releasing energy in the form of seismic waves.

Subduction zone

Area where one tectonic plate is being forced under another, often associated with volcanic activity.

Magma

Molten rock beneath the Earth's surface.

Lava

Magma that has reached the Earth's surface.

Metamorphic rock

Rock that has transformed due to heat and pressure.

Sedimentary rock

Rock formed by the accumulation and compaction of sediments.

Igneous rock

Rock formed from cooled magma or lava.

Human impacts

Effects of human activities on the environment and natural cycles.

Fossil evidence

Remains or traces of ancient organisms that support theories of continental movement.

Climate change evidence

Signs or records indicating changes in climate that can impact geological and ecological processes.