Biogeochemical Cycles

Ammonification

the conversion of organic nitrogen to ammonium by the action of decomposers (bacteria).

Nitrification

nitrification bacteria convert ammonia into nitrite and then nitrate

Denitrification

conversion of nitrate into atmospheric nitrogen

Nitrogen Fixation

atmospheric nitrogen is converted into a usable form, ammonia by bacteria, of Nitrogen oxide by lightening or fires

Ammonia

NH3

Nitrate

NO3

Nitrite

NO2

Atmospheric Nitrogen

N2, not usable by plants

Assimilation

absorption of nutrients, plants uptake through roots, animals by ingestion/digestion

Decomposition

the process of breaking down organic matter by microorganisms, returning nutrients to the soil.

Photosynthesis

the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen.

Cellular Respiration

the process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy, producing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.

Combustion 

the chemical process of burning organic materials, resulting in the release of energy, carbon dioxide, and water.

Carbon sink

a natural or artificial reservoir that absorbs and stores carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change.

Carbon Source

a natural or human-made source that releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

Carbon Reservoir 

a natural or artificial storage location for carbon, which can include forests, oceans, and soil, that plays a critical role in the carbon cycle.

Weathering

the process of breaking down rocks and minerals through mechanical, chemical, or biological means, which helps to release essential nutrients and minerals into the soil.

Transpiration (Evapotranspiration)

the process by which water is absorbed by plant roots and released as vapor through pores in leaves, playing a crucial role in the water cycle.

Infiltration (water cycle)

the process by which water soaks into the soil from the surface, replenishing groundwater supplies.

Runoff

the movement of water, typically from precipitation, that flows over the land surface into rivers, lakes, and oceans, contributing to the water cycle.

Condensation

the process by which water vapor in the air cools and transforms into liquid droplets, forming clouds.

Precipitation

the process by which water in various forms, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail, falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.

Evaporation

the process of converting liquid water into water vapor, occurring when water heats up and escapes into the atmosphere.