Nutrient Cycling

Nutrient Cycling

Recycling of nutrients through ecosystems.

Biogeochemical Cycles

Cycles that recycle matter and energy in ecosystems.

Energy Flow

One-way stream of energy through trophic levels.

Matter Flow

Recycling of matter through trophic levels.

Biological Processes

Activities performed by living organisms.

Geological Processes

Earth's physical changes, like volcanic eruptions.

Chemical Processes

Reactions like cloud formation and precipitation.

Human Activities

Actions affecting global nutrient cycles.

Water Cycle

Water movement between atmosphere and Earth.

Nutrient Cycles

Cycles through which nutrients pass in ecosystems.

Carbon Cycle

Flow of carbon through living and non-living systems.

Nitrogen Cycle

Movement of nitrogen through the biosphere.

Phosphorus Cycle

Flow of phosphorus through ecosystems.

Limiting Nutrient

Nutrient that limits ecosystem productivity.

Nitrogen Fixation

Conversion of nitrogen gas into ammonia.

Denitrification

Conversion of nitrates back to nitrogen gas.

Algal Bloom

Rapid growth of algae due to excess nutrients.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

Key component in carbon cycle and photosynthesis.

Oxygen Cycle

Oxygen's role in carbon and nitrogen cycles.

Photosynthesis

Process where plants convert CO2 into carbohydrates.

Ecosystem Productivity

Rate of organic material creation by producers.

Runoff

Water flow carrying nutrients into aquatic systems.

Fossil Fuels

Natural fuels formed from decomposed organic matter.

Nutrient Availability

Presence of nutrients affecting ecosystem health.