Ecology-Part C 2025 (Cycles)

Decomposition

The breaking down of matter into simpler molecules. Typically performed by bacteria.

Carbon Cycle

The movement of carbon from the nonliving environment into living things and back.

Combustion

Burning of fossil fuels and wood, releasing energy and carbon dioxide.

Nitrogen Cycle

The movement of nitrogen from the atmosphere to the soil, to living organisms, and back to the atmosphere.

Water Cycle

The movement of water from Earth's surface to the atmosphere and back.

Photosynthesis

Process used by plants to capture and convert the sun's energy, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose (sugar). Part of carbon cycle.

Transpiration

The evaporation of water from the leaves of a plant into the atmosphere.

Evaporation

A physical change from a liquid to a gas at a temperature that is lower than the boiling point.

Condensation

A physical change from a gas to a liquid at cooler temperatures (the opposite of evaporation).

Precipitation

Any form of water that falls from clouds and reaches Earth's surface.

Biodiversity

The number, and variety of living organisms in a given area, during a specific period of time.

Ecosystem

A system formed by the interaction of a community of organisms with their physical environment.

Population

A group of individuals that belong to the same species and live in the same area.

Community

A group of interdependent organisms inhabiting the same region and interacting with each other.

primary succession

The sequence of biotic changes that creates a community in a previously uninhabited area.

secondary succession

The sequence of biotic changes that regenerates a community following a disturbance that destroys a community without destroying the soil (ex. fire)