Phosphorus Cycle

Flashcards covering key concepts and terms related to the phosphorus cycle in a biogeochemical context.

Biogeochemical Cycle

A pathway by which a chemical substance moves through biotic and abiotic compartments of Earth.

Phosphorus

An essential element for plant and animal growth, crucial for the production of DNA, RNA, and ATP.

Weathering

The process by which rocks breakdown to release phosphorus into the soil and water.

Absorption

The process by which plants, fungi, and microorganisms take up phosphorus from the soil.

Decomposition

The process through which dead organisms return phosphorus to the environment.

Mineralization

The conversion of organic phosphorus to inorganic phosphorus by bacteria.

Sedimentation

The process where phosphorus is buried in sediments which eventually become rocks.

Human Impact on the Phosphorus Cycle

The addition of phosphorus fertilizers to soil which can lead to overgrowth of algae.

Algal Bloom

Excessive growth of algae driven by high levels of plant nutrients, often toxic when they die.