The Cycles of Matter

Why are bacteria a necessary part of the nitrogen cycle?

Bacteria are the main nitrogen transpirators.

A group of environmentalists were discussing the benefits and drawbacks associated with using fossil fuels. Which argument best fits the conversation?

Fossil fuels are cheaper than alternative forms of energy.

Which describes a disruption in the water cycle that could affect photosynthesis?

Heat causes an excess of transpiration.

Osteoporosis is a disease that affects the bones and leads to an increase in bone fractures. Osteoporosis is most likely to be affected by which cycle?

Phosphorus

What best describes the association between the carbon cycle, plants, and animals?

Plants fix carbon and release oxygen, and animals release carbon and use oxygen.

What would happen if there was no condensation stage in the water cycle?

Water could not convert from a gas to a liquid.

Which of the following would be a result of eutrophication of nitrogen?

Which of the following would be a result of eutrophication of nitrogen?

Which of these nutrients can be found in all organic compounds?

carbon

Actinobacteria sp. are fermenting organisms (which do not use oxygen to breathe) referred to as chemoorganohetereotrophs. This means they break down organic material and convert it to inorganic material. Which part of the carbon cycle does this describe?

decomposition

Which answer gives both a positive impact and a negative impact that are associated with the effects of nitrogen- and phosphorus-enhanced fertilizers?

increased plant growth and damage to drinking water

Which molecule would be the most affected by limited nitrogen?

myofibrillar proteins in muscle

Which are limiting nutrients for plant growth?

phosphorus and nitrogen

Humans affect the carbon cycle in many ways through the use of fossil fuels, clear cutting of forests, and controlled burns. Which of the following processes can help counteract these human interactions?

photosynthesis

Plants use the process of______ to remove carbon dioxide from the air.

photosynthesis

What is the purpose of the biogeochemical cycles?

to recycle matter through the biosphere

Water exits the leaves of plants and enters the atmosphere. What is this process called?

transpiration