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Biogeochemical cycle

The movements of matter within and between ecosystems, including both the biotic and abiotic components of an ecosystem.

Hydrologic cycle

The movement of water through the biosphere.

Transpiration

The release of water from leaves during photosynthesis.

Evapotranspiration

The combined amount of evaporation and transpiration.

Runoff

Water that moves across the land surface and into streams and rivers.

Carbon cycle

The movement of carbon around the biosphere.

Carbon Sink

a place or process that removes more carbon from the atmosphere than it releases. (i.e. forests, oceans)

Photosynthesis

removes carbon and converts it into energy for the ecosystem.

Cellular respiration

returns carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.

Macronutrient

One of six key elements that organisms need in relatively large amounts: nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulfur.

Limiting nutrient

A nutrient required for the growth of an organism but available in a lower quantity than other nutrients. (plants need both nitrogen and phosphorus)

Nitrogen cycle

The movement of nitrogen around the biosphere.

Nitrogen fixation

A process by which some organisms can convert nitrogen gas molecules directly into ammonia.

Nitrification

The conversion of ammonia (NH4+) into nitrite (NO2- ) and then into nitrate (NO3- ).

Assimilation

The process by which producers incorporate elements into their tissues.

Mineralization

The process by which fungal and bacterial decomposers break down the organic matter found in dead bodies and waste products and convert it into inorganic compounds.

Ammonification

The process by which fungal and bacterial decomposers break down the organic nitrogen found in dead bodies and waste products and convert it into inorganic ammonium (NH4+).

Denitrification

The conversion of nitrate (NO3- ) in a series of steps into the gases nitrous oxide (N2O) and, eventually, nitrogen gas (N2), which is emitted into the atmosphere.

Leaching

The transportation of dissolved molecules through the soil via groundwater.

Phosphorus cycle

The movement of phosphorus around the biosphere.

Algal bloom

A rapid increase in the algal population of a waterway.

Hypoxic

Low in oxygen.

Eutrophication

excessive plant or algae growth due to over availability of limiting nutrients.