Earth's Natural Cycles
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Define nitrogen fixation.
The process of converting atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia or related compounds.
True or false: Denitrification returns nitrogen to the atmosphere.
TRUE Denitrification is performed by bacteria in anaerobic conditions.
Fill in the blank: Nitrification involves the conversion of ammonia to _______.
nitrates
What is the role of decomposers in the nitrogen cycle?
They break down organic matter, releasing nitrogen back into the soil.
Define carbon sequestration.
The process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide.
True or false: Photosynthesis absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
TRUE Plants convert CO2 into glucose and oxygen during photosynthesis.
Fill in the blank: Respiration releases _______ back into the atmosphere.
carbon dioxide
What is the carbon cycle?
The series of processes by which carbon compounds are interconverted in the environment.
Define ammonification.
The process of converting organic nitrogen into ammonia by decomposers.
True or false: Fossil fuels release carbon when burned.
TRUE Burning fossil fuels contributes to increased atmospheric CO2 levels.
Fill in the blank: Leguminous plants can fix nitrogen due to _______ in their roots.
nodules
What is the significance of bacteria in the nitrogen cycle?
Bacteria facilitate nitrogen fixation, nitrification, and denitrification processes.
Define greenhouse gases.
Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect.
True or false: Ocean absorption is a major carbon sink.
TRUE Oceans absorb a significant amount of atmospheric CO2.
Fill in the blank: Carbon is stored in _______ reservoirs such as forests and oceans.
natural
What is nitrogen’s role in living organisms?
It is a key component of amino acids and nucleic acids.
Define eutrophication.
The excessive growth of algae due to nutrient runoff, often from fertilizers.
True or false: Carbon dioxide is the most abundant greenhouse gas.
FALSE Water vapor is the most abundant, but CO2 is significant for climate change.
Fill in the blank: The nitrogen cycle is crucial for _______ production.
protein
What is the impact of deforestation on the carbon cycle?
It reduces carbon sequestration and increases atmospheric CO2 levels.
Define sustainable agriculture.
Farming practices that maintain soil health and reduce nitrogen runoff.
True or false: Soil can store carbon over long periods.
TRUE Healthy soils can sequester significant amounts of carbon.
Fill in the blank: Nitrogen is essential for _______ synthesis in plants.
chlorophyll
What is the effect of acid rain on the nitrogen cycle?
It can lead to nitrogen leaching and soil degradation.