The Natural Cycles

Water Cycle

The continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth's surface.

Evaporation

The process where water evaporates from the Earth's surface, such as from oceans, lakes, and rivers.

Transpiration

The release of water vapor into the atmosphere by plants through their leaves.

Condensation

The process where water vapor in the atmosphere cools and forms clouds.

Precipitation

Water that falls back to Earth in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Aquifers

Underground reservoirs or storage areas that hold groundwater.

Groundwater Depletion

The process where groundwater is consumed faster than it can recharge, making it a precious resource.

Carbon Cycle

The biogeochemical cycle that describes the movement of carbon through the Earth's ecosystems.

Photosynthesis

The process by which plants use carbon dioxide to make carbohydrates and release oxygen.

Respiration

The process by which animals and organisms use carbohydrates to produce energy, releasing carbon dioxide.

Decomposition

The process where dead organisms break down, releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

Fossilization

The process where some carbon dioxide from decomposition is buried and forms fossil fuels.

Phosphorus Cycle

The biogeochemical cycle describing the movement of phosphorus through the Earth's ecosystems.

Weathering

The process that releases phosphorus into the soil from rocks and minerals.

Uptake

The process where plants absorb phosphorus from the soil.

Nitrogen Cycle

The biogeochemical cycle that describes the movement of nitrogen through the Earth's ecosystems.

Fixation

The conversion of nitrogen gas into ammonia, a form usable by plants.

Nitrification

The process where soil bacteria convert ammonia into nitrites and then nitrates for plant use.

Denitrification

The process where decomposing bodies release nitrogen back into the atmosphere through bacteria.

Assimilation

The process where plants use nitrates to make proteins and other nitrogen-containing compounds.