Biogeochemical Cycles (Nitrogen/Carbon)

What are the four primary biotic processes in the carbon cycle?

Photosynthesis, consumption, respiration, and decomposition.

Which abiotic process involves CO2 dissolving in water to form H2CO3?

Dissolution.

What are the four main carbon reservoirs on Earth?

Lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere.

What is the primary driver of the nitrogen cycle?

Different types of bacteria.

What are the two ways nitrogen fixation occurs abiotically and biotically?

Abiotically via lightning and biotically via nitrogen-fixing bacteria.

What substance is N2 converted into during nitrogen fixation?

Ammonium ions (NH4+).

What is the role of decomposers in ammonification?

They break down organic waste into ammonia or ammonium.

What is the two-step process of nitrification?

Ammonium (NH4+) is converted to nitrite (NO2-), then nitrite is converted to nitrate (NO3-).

How do plants participate in the nitrogen cycle?

They take up nitrates through their roots to create biomass and proteins.

What is the function of denitrifying bacteria?

They convert nitrates (NO3-) back into nitrogen gas (N2) to be released into the atmosphere.

Where are denitrifying bacteria typically found?

In low-oxygen environments.

How do consumers contribute to the nitrogen cycle?

They assimilate nitrogen through consumption and release nitrogenous wastes like ammonia and urea.

Name three abiotic processes in the carbon cycle besides dissolution.

Lithification, combustion, and volcanic eruption.

What is the difference between fossil fuel formation and decomposition in the carbon cycle?

Fossil fuel formation occurs without decomposition.

Where do symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria live?

In the root nodules of legumes.

What form of nitrogen is produced by lightning during nitrogen fixation?

Nitrate (NO3-).