Sulfur cycle

Definition

The sulfur cycle is the process by which sulfur moves between rocks, waterways, and living systems. It involves various chemical transformations facilitated by microbial metabolism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Microorganisms play a crucial role in the sulfur cycle by oxidizing and reducing different sulfur compounds.
2. Sulfur-oxidizing bacteria convert hydrogen sulfide (H2S) into sulfate (SO4^2-).
3. Sulfate-reducing bacteria reduce sulfate to hydrogen sulfide under anaerobic conditions.
4. Dimethyl sulfide (DMS) is a significant volatile compound produced during the sulfur cycle, influencing cloud formation and climate.
5. The sulfur cycle is essential for synthesizing amino acids such as cysteine and methionine.

Related terms

Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria: Microorganisms that use sulfate as an electron acceptor, reducing it to hydrogen sulfide.

Sulfur-Oxidizing Bacteria: Bacteria that oxidize reduced sulfur compounds like hydrogen sulfide into sulfate.

Biogeochemical Cycles:

The natural pathways by which essential elements circulate through ecosystems involving biological, geological, and chemical processes.