Cycles of Matter

Flashcards covering the cycles of matter, including the water, carbon, and nitrogen cycles, as well as ecological succession.

Ecosphere

The global ecological system integrating all living beings and their relationships, including their interaction with the elements of the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere

Biogeochemical Cycles

Process in which elements, chemical compounds (water and nutrients), and other forms of matter are passed from one organism to another and from one part of the biosphere to another

Biological Processes in Biogeochemical Cycles

Cellular respiration, photosynthesis, decomposition, nitrogen fixation, etc.

Geological Processes in Biogeochemical Cycles

Erosion, rock formation, heat and pressure from the earth

The Water Cycle

Water moves between oceans, atmosphere, and land. It can exist inside or outside of organisms.

Evaporation

The process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas or vapor

Transpiration

The process where plants absorb water through the roots and then give off water vapor through pores in their leaves

Condensation

The change of water from its gaseous form (water vapor) into liquid water

Precipitation

Any form of water falling from the sky

Runoff

Water that flows over the ground surface rather than soaking into the ground

Aquifer depletion

Occurs when groundwater is extracted at a rate that exceeds the rate of recharge, leading to a decline in groundwater levels

Saltwater intrusion

The movement of saline water into freshwater aquifers, which can lead to contamination of drinking water sources and other adverse effects.

The Carbon Cycle

The process by which carbon atoms continually travel from the atmosphere to the Earth and then back into the atmosphere

Photosynthesis

The process by which plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create oxygen and energy in the form of sugar (glucose).

Cellular Respiration

The process by which organisms use oxygen to break down glucose and obtain energy, releasing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.

Fossil Fuels

Energy rich fuels ( coal, oil, and natural gas) created from carbon-containing compounds of ancient, dead forests, marine organisms, or other animals have been buried and transformed by pressure and heat.

The Nitrogen Cycle

The biogeochemical cycle that describes the transformations of nitrogen and nitrogen-containing compounds in nature.

Nitrogen Fixation

The conversion of Nitrogen Gas (not usable) into Ammonia, Nitrates, and Nitrites (usable) by bacteria.

Eutrophication

Excess growth of algae due to increased levels of fertilizers in the water; Creates an algal bloom. Algae takes oxygen from other organisms and may release toxins

Succession

The natural change of an ecosystem over time. As time passes new species will be introduced to ecosystems. The rate of change depends on the previous environment.

Primary Succession

Ecological succession that begins in essentially lifeless areas, such as regions in which there is no soil.

Lichens

A symbiotic relationship between a fungus and a photosynthetic partner (usually an algae).

Secondary Succession

The ecological succession that occurs on soil that already exists

Pioneer Organisms

are the first organisms to grow in an area after the land is exposed

Serel Stages

are the stages of growth in between the beginning and the mature area.

Climax Community

is the mature community that will grow in an area.