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C. Describe how the biogeochemical cycles follow the first law of thermodynamics.

User Thenlie
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Final answer:

The biogeochemical cycles follow the first law of thermodynamics by demonstrating the conservation of energy within the Earth's systems.


Step-by-step explanation:

The biogeochemical cycles follow the first law of thermodynamics by demonstrating the conservation of energy within the Earth's systems. This law states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed. In the biogeochemical cycles, energy is constantly being transferred and transformed between living organisms, the environment, and the Earth's systems.

For example, in the carbon cycle, photosynthesis converts solar energy into chemical energy stored in organic molecules, which is then transferred to other organisms through food chains. In the water cycle, energy from the sun drives the evaporation of water, which then condenses and falls back to the Earth as precipitation.

Overall, the first law of thermodynamics ensures that energy remains constant within the biogeochemical cycles, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance and sustainability of Earth's ecosystems.


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User Nevermind
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