Phosphorus Cycle

Basic Phosphorus Facts

P has no significant atmospheric reservoir

Virtually all P is in sedimentary rocks

Essential limiting nutrient in

Genetic material (DNA, RNA)

Energy carrying compounds (ATP)

Structural support (phospholipids, bones)

70% of global rock phosphate is found in

Morocco

Four components of the Global P Cycle

1) Tectonic uplift

2) Physical erosion and chemical weathering

3) Riverine transport

4) Sedimentation

Oceans play a critical role in the global P cycle as the

terminal sink

Sources of P to the ocean

Dust

Rivers and groundwater discharge

Sinks of P from the ocean

Burial with sediments

Mid-ocean Ridges

P biogeochemistry

Essential nutrient

Particle-reactive

Cycles with Fe

Causes eutrophication primarily in

freshwater systems