Phosphorus cycle

Question 1

Why it’s important

Answer 1

Phosphorus is a major compnent of DNA and RNA as well as ATP
The molecules used for energy transfer

Question 2

Does it have a gas phase?

Answer 2

NO

Question 3

How it enters atmosphere

Answer 3

In small amounts when dust is dissolved in rainwater or nitrogen
Found in -3
PO3

Question 4

1

Answer 4

Assimilation and Mineralization
Producers take up inorganic phosphate and assimilate the phosphorus into their tissues as organic phosphorus

Question 5

2

Answer 5

Assimilation and Mineralization
Waste products and dead bodies of organisims are decomposed by fungi and bacteria which causes mineralization of organic phosphate back to inorganic phosphorus

Question 6

3

Answer 6

Sedimentation, Geologic Uplift, Weathering
Phosphorus precipitates out of the ocean and forms sediments which are transformed to new phosphate rock

Question 7

4

Answer 7

Sedimentation, Geologic Uplift, Weathering
Phosphate rocks in the mountains are slowly weatherd by natural forces, which brings phosphorus to terrestrial and aquatic habitats

Question 8

5

Answer 8

Little phosphorus reaches into bodies of water because it is tightly held in soils