Cycling of Matter & Ecosystems

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the cycling of matter and ecosystems, including biogeochemical cycles, water cycle, nitrogen cycle, and more.

Biogeochemical Cycles

Cycles that involve the recycling of chemical elements through biotic and abiotic components of ecosystems.

Water Cycle

The continuous movement of water through evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Photosynthesis

The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of carbon dioxide and water.

Decomposition

The process by which organic substances are broken down into simpler organic or inorganic matter.

Eutrophication

The process by which water bodies become enriched with nutrients, often leading to excessive growth of algae.

Acid Rain

Precipitation that has a higher acidity than normal, often due to nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides in the atmosphere.

Nitrogen Fixation

The process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into a usable form such as nitrates (NO3-).

Greenhouse Effect

The trapping of the sun's warmth in the planet's lower atmosphere due to the presence of greenhouse gases.

Leaching

The removal of soluble materials from the soil by water movement.

Inorganic Carbon Reservoirs

Natural storage locations for inorganic forms of carbon, such as the atmosphere, oceans, and Earth's crust.