The Water and Nitrogen Cycles Flashcards
(10 cards)
Why is water important?
Water makes up 60-70% of your body, oxygen and hydrogen are found in all the building blocks of cells, it is also a necessary reactant for photosynthesis.
Why is water important? P2
Water is a good solvent, which makes water a place for chemical reactions to happen, and water changes temperature slowly so it helps with temperature regulation.
What is transpiration?
The evaporation of water from the surface of plant leaves.
What is precipitation?
The return of water to the surface in the form of rain, snow, sleet, hail, etc.
Why is nitrogen important?
Nitrogen is a necessary element for DNA and RNA (genetics/ reproduction), ATP (energy), and proteins (cell functions)
What is the process of Nitrogen Fixation?
Certain bacteria live in close relationships with plants called legumes, taking nitrogen from the air and converting it into a AMMONIA (NH3)
What is the process of Denitrification?
Some bacteria can do the reverse process, converting usable nitrogen back into the atmosphere.
How is nitrogen essential for plant growth?
Nitrogen is a key component for plants to grow, reproduce, photosynthesize, and proteins.
Why is too much fertilizer a problem?
The artificial fertilizers lead to excess nitrogen in the environment, beyond what ecosystems can absorb.
Why is overfeeding bad?
Excess fertilizer causes algae to grow, then die. Decomposition uses up oxygen, killing fish and other aquatic life.
