Final answer:
Phosphorus cycles by existing in both living and nonliving things, remaining mainly as a phosphate ion. It is primarily found in rocks and sediments, and its release into the environment occurs through weathering and erosion. The cycle continues as plants absorb phosphorus and it is eventually released back into the environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Phosphorus cycles throughout Earth by existing as a single element in both living and nonliving things. It is an essential element in DNA, RNA, and ATP, and is used by plants to grow and reproduce. When plants and animals die, phosphorus is released back into the environment and can be absorbed by plants again, continuing the cycle.
Phosphorus does not undergo significant changes like many other nutrients, as it remains mostly in a phosphate ion form. These phosphate ions are the same in both organic matter, such as in living organisms, and inorganic matter like rocks and soil.
While phosphorus can be found in ocean waters, it is not mostly found there before cycling into a gaseous phase. Instead, it is primarily found in rocks, sediments, and soil. Over long periods of time, weathering and erosion release phosphorus from rocks and sediments, which eventually makes its way into bodies of water.
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