1.6

Question 1

Phosphorus Cycle

Answer 1

The movement of phosphorus molecules between sources and sinks.

Question 2

What is the general speed of the phosphorus cycle?

Answer 2

Slow, since it takes a long time for phosphorus minerals to be weathered and carried into bodies of water

Question 3

Does phosphorus have a gaseous state?

Answer 3

No

Question 4

In what ways is phosphorus important to life?

Answer 4

It is found in DNA, ATP, and bones/teeth.

Question 5

Sources of phosphorus

Answer 5

Weathering of rocks and synthetic sources such as mining, fertilizers, and detergents.

Question 6

Weathering

Answer 6

Water and wind break down rock causing phosphate (PO4) to be released and dissolved into water.

Question 7

Assimilation

Answer 7

The process by which phosphorus is taken in / absorbed by plants and animals; eating plants or animals

Question 8

Decomposition

Answer 8

Bacteria & soil decomposers break down animal waste, plant matter plant matter and other biomass, returning phosphate into soil

Question 9

Sedimentation

Answer 9

Solid bits of phosphate falling to ocean bottom forming into sediments, eventually compressed into sedimentary rock

Question 10

Geological Uplift

Answer 10

Tectonic plate collision, forcing rock upward allowing further weathering and release of phosphate

Question 11

Eutrophication

Answer 11

Can occur from fertilizer runoff, when too much phosphorus leads to overgrowth of algae covering the surface. Plant and animal life below dies from low oxygen levels.