Question

describe what is meant by nutrient cycling, and illustrate this with a brief explanation of how this works and why it is important.

Answer 1

Nutrient cycling is the process of recycling essential minerals and nutrients in the environment. This process ensures a constant supply of nutrients for living organisms and maintains ecosystem balance. Examples include the carbon cycle and the nitrogen cycle.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nutrient cycling refers to the process in which essential minerals and nutrients are recycled in the environment, allowing them to be reused by living organisms. This cycling is important because it ensures a constant supply of nutrients for all organisms and maintains the balance of ecosystems.

One example of nutrient cycling is the carbon cycle. Carbon dioxide is absorbed by plants during photosynthesis and is used to build organic compounds. When organisms die and decompose, carbon is released back into the environment, and can be used by other organisms. This cycle helps regulate the Earth's climate and supports the growth of plants and other organisms.

Another example is the nitrogen cycle. Nitrogen gas in the atmosphere is converted into a form that can be used by plants through the process of nitrogen fixation. When plants and animals die, decomposers break down their organic matter, releasing nitrogen compounds back into the environment. This cycle is essential for the growth and development of plants and is a key component of protein synthesis.