Moving Materials Through an Ecosystem 1.2: Matter Cycles Moving Materials Through an Ecosystem
Biogeochemical Cycles Biology + geology + chemical Life requires certain elements Matter is not used up, it is transformed and cycles through the biotic and abiotic factors within the ecosystem
Water Cycle Transpiration Water from leaves of plants Water is waste product of photosynthesis Evaporation Water from bodies of water to the atmosphere Condensation Formation of clouds: gas to liquid water in the atmosphere Precipitation Water from the clouds to Earth
Video: Water Cycle
Carbon Cycle Photosynthesis Process of capturing carbon from the atmosphere Carbon dioxide into sugar Respiration Breaking of sugar back into gaseous carbon dioxide and waste filled with carbon Combustion Burning of fossil fuels that releases dust and excess carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
Video: Carbon Cycle
Nitrogen Cycle Bacteria and Decomposers Release nitrogen from compounds like nucleic acids and proteins from dead organisms and waste into the soil Nitrogen fixation Bonding nitrogen atoms into molecules that can be absorbed by plants Nitrogen absorbed by the roots of plants or released back into the atmosphere
Video: Nitrogen Cycle
VIDEOS: Amoeba Sisters: Matter Cycles Study Jams: Water Cycle, Carbon Cycle, Nitrogen Cycle
Discussion Questions Are water, carbon, and nitrogen renewable resources? Are there such things as renewable resources? Once pollution occurs, can it ever truly be undone?