2.1 - Matter Cycling in Ecosystems

carbon cycle

The natural processes by which carbon compounds are incorporated into living tissues by photosynthesis and returned to the atmosphere through respiration, decay of dead organisms, and burning of fossil fuels

producer

An organism that produces organic compounds for food from carbon dioxide by either photosynthesis or chemosynthesis

consumer

An organism that obtains energy by feeding on other organisms

photosynthesis

A process used by plants and other autotrophs to capture light and energy and use it to power chemical reactions that convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and energy-rich carbohydrates, such as sugars and starches.

cellular respiration

A complex set of chemical reactions involving an energy transformation where potential chemical energy in the bonds of "food" molecules is released and partially captured in the bonds of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) molecules.

water cycle

The natural processes the move water between abiotic and biotic components of the ecosystem

transpiration

The process in which water evaporates from the inside of leaves to the outside atmosphere through stomata

percolation

The process of water moving from the surface of the ground into the ground water supply

oxygen cycle

The natural processes that produce oxygen from photosynthesis and use oxygen for cellular respiration and burning of fossil fuels

nitrogen cycle

The process of capture and use of nitrogen by living organisms and the environment

nitrates

A fixed form of nitrogen that is usable by plants

nitrogen fixation

The process in which nitrogen gas is captured and converted into ammonia

nitrification

The process where ammonia is converted into nitrites and then nitrites into nitrates

denitrification

The process in which nitrates are converted back into nitrogen gas and returned to the atmosphere