Biogeochemical cycles
Definition
Biogeochemical cycles are natural processes that involve the cycling of elements or compounds through living organisms and their environment.
Analogy
Think of biogeochemical cycles as a never-ending relay race where different runners (organisms) pass on batons (elements or compounds) to each other while running through various stages (environmental compartments).
Related terms
Carbon cycle: The movement of carbon between living organisms, the atmosphere, oceans, and Earth's crust.
Water cycle: The continuous movement of water between the atmosphere, land surface, underground reservoirs, and bodies of water.
Phosphorus cycle: The cycling of phosphorus through rocks, soil, water bodies, plants, animals, and back to the environment.
"Biogeochemical cycles" appears in:
Study guides (3)
Practice Questions (2)
- What does the term "biogeochemical cycles" refer to?
- How does urbanization affect natural biogeochemical cycles?
Resources
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