Question

Why is the phosphorus cycle a much slower process than other cycles?

A) Phosphorus forms stable compounds
B) Phosphorus undergoes rapid microbial decay
C) Phosphorus is highly soluble in water
D) Phosphorus has a short residence time in the atmosphere

Answer 1

The phosphorus cycle is slower than other cycles because phosphorus forms stable compounds and has a slow movement from the ocean to the land and through the soil.

Step-by-step explanation:

The phosphorus cycle is a much slower process than other cycles because phosphorus forms stable compounds. Unlike other elements, phosphorus tends to form stable compounds in the environment, making it less available for cycling. Additionally, the movement of phosphate from the ocean to the land and through the soil is extremely slow, with the average phosphate ion having an oceanic residence time between 20,000 and 100,000 years.