Final Answer:
1. Weathering: Rocks break down into phosphorus-containing compounds.
2. Absorption: Plants uptake phosphorus from the soil.
3. Decomposition: Organic matter breakdown releases phosphorus into the soil.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phosphorus cycle is a vital ecological process comprising distinct stages that facilitate the movement of phosphorus through various environmental reservoirs. In the initial phase of weathering, rocks undergo breakdown processes, resulting in the formation of phosphorus-containing compounds. This weathering releases phosphorus into the surrounding environment, contributing to its availability in the ecosystem.
Subsequently, the absorption stage involves plants taking up phosphorus from the soil. Plants play a crucial role as they assimilate phosphorus into their tissues, incorporating it into the biological system. This absorption represents a key link between the geological and biological components of the phosphorus cycle.
The final stage, decomposition, is integral to recycling phosphorus within the ecosystem. During this phase, organic matter breaks down, releasing phosphorus back into the soil. This cyclic process ensures a continuous supply of phosphorus, sustaining the nutrient balance in the ecosystem. Understanding the phosphorus cycle is essential for comprehending nutrient dynamics in ecosystems and agriculture.