Chap 3-3 Cycles of Matter
About this set
Created by:
dhorne01 Plus on October 24, 2011
Classes:
Log in to favorite or report as inappropriate.
Order by
9 terms
Terms | Definitions |
|---|---|
 biogeochemical cycles | elements, chemical compounds and other forms of matter are passed between organisms and parts of the biosphere in a cycle |
| evaporation | the process by which water changes from liquid form to an atmospheric gas |
| transpiration | evaporation of water from a plant's leaves |
| nutrient | chemical substance that an organism requires to live |
| nitrogen fixation | process by which certain bacteria convert nitrogen gas to ammonia |
| denitrification | conversion of nitrates in the soil by bacteria into nitrogen gas |
| primary productivity | rate at which organic matter is created by producers in an ecosystem |
| limiting nutrient | single nutrient that either is scarce or cycles very slowly, limiting the growth of organisms in an ecosystem |
| algal bloom | an increase in the amount of algae and other producers that results from a large input of a limiting nutrient |
First Time Here?
Welcome to Quizlet, a fun, free place to study. Try these flashcards, find others to study, or make your own.