Final answer:
Water cycles through ecosystems by participating in the biogeochemical water cycle, involving both living organisms and non-living components, changing states, and moving through various reservoirs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The transfer and transformation of matter as it cycles through ecosystems, specifically in the form of water, can be described through the water cycle. This biogeochemical cycle involves both biotic (living organisms) and abiotic (nonliving things) components. During the water cycle, water constantly moves between living organisms, like plants, and non-living elements, such as the atmosphere, rivers, and oceans. Water changes state—between liquid, gas (water vapor), and solid (ice)—and moves through various exchange pools or reservoirs like the atmosphere, ice masses, aquifers, and the deep ocean.
Contrary to option (a), water is not solely involved in photosynthesis but also participates in many other crucial ecological processes. Option (b) is incorrect because the water cycle encompasses both living organisms and the physical environment. Option (c) accurately represents that water does indeed participate in biogeochemical cycles, moving through different forms and locations within ecosystems. Option (d) is incorrect as water indeed plays a substantial role in ecosystem matter cycles, being essential for life and facilitating numerous biological and chemical processes.