Phosphorus Cycle
A quiz based on notes about the phosphorus cycle.
- 1.
Which of the following statements about the phosphorus cycle is correct?
- A.
Phosphorus primarily cycles through the atmosphere, undergoing various chemical reactions.
- B.
Phosphorus is mainly absorbed by plants through the process of nitrogen fixation.
- C.
Phosphorus can be lost from ecosystems through leaching and runoff into bodies of water.
- D.
Phosphorus cycle is independent of the carbon cycle.
Correct Answer
C. Phosphorus can be lost from ecosystems through leaching and runoff into bodies of water.Explanation
The phosphorus cycle is a biogeochemical process that involves the movement of phosphorus through the Earth's lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Phosphorus is released from rocks through weathering, absorbed by plants, transferred through food webs, and returned to the soil and water through decomposition and sedimentation, completing the cycle.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Phosphorus is primarily released from _________ through weathering processes, which makes it available for uptake by plants.
Correct Answer
rocks, RocksExplanation
Rocks are the primary source of phosphorus in the environment. Over time, weathering processes, such as rain, wind, and freezing/thawing cycles, break down rocks and release phosphorus into the soil and water. This inorganic phosphorus is then taken up by plants and incorporated into their tissues. Animals obtain phosphorus by consuming plants or other animals that have consumed plants. When organisms die, decomposers break down their organic matter, returning phosphorus to the soil and completing the phosphorus cycle.Rate this question:
- 3.
The phosphorus cycle includes erosion and weathering.
- A.
False
- B.
True
Correct Answer
B. TrueExplanation
The phosphorus cycle does include erosion and weathering. Erosion refers to the movement of phosphorus from land to water bodies through processes like runoff and leaching. Weathering refers to the breakdown of rocks and minerals containing phosphorus, releasing it into the environment. Both erosion and weathering play crucial roles in the movement and availability of phosphorus in ecosystems, making the statement true.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Why can't Phosphorus be found in the atmosphere?
- A.
It doesn't combind well with the other elements
- B.
It just can't be found
- C.
The sun evaporates it
- D.
At normal temperatures and pressure, phosphorus is at a liquid state
Correct Answer
D. At normal temperatures and pressure, phosphorus is at a liquid stateExplanation
Phosphorus cannot be found in the atmosphere because at normal temperatures and pressure, it is in a liquid state. This means that it does not exist as a gas in the atmosphere like other elements such as oxygen or nitrogen.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Where does the Phosphorus Cycle start?
- A.
Rocks
- B.
Water
- C.
Atmosphere
Correct Answer
A. RocksExplanation
The Phosphorus Cycle starts in rocks. Phosphorus is released from rocks through weathering and erosion processes. Over time, these rocks break down and release phosphorus into the soil. From the soil, plants absorb the phosphorus and incorporate it into their tissues. The phosphorus then moves through the food chain as animals consume plants. When plants and animals die, their organic matter decomposes, releasing phosphorus back into the soil. This cycle continues as phosphorus is again absorbed by plants, completing the cycle.Rate this question:
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- 6.
How does the Phosphorus enter plants in the soil?
- A.
Photosynthesis
- B.
Water in the soil
Correct Answer
B. Water in the soilExplanation
Phosphorus enters plants in the soil through water. Water in the soil contains dissolved phosphorus compounds that can be absorbed by plant roots. This phosphorus is essential for various plant processes, including energy transfer, DNA synthesis, and cell division. Therefore, water acts as a carrier for phosphorus, allowing it to be taken up by plants and used for their growth and development.Rate this question:
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- 7.
How do humans impact the Phosphorus Cycle?
- A.
Pollution
- B.
We do not have any impact
- C.
Killing plants
- D.
Use fertilizers that are not natural
Correct Answer
D. Use fertilizers that are not naturalExplanation
Humans impact the Phosphorus Cycle by using fertilizers that are not natural. This is because these fertilizers contain high levels of phosphorus, which is released into the environment when they are used. This excess phosphorus can then enter water bodies through runoff, leading to eutrophication and harmful algal blooms. Therefore, the use of unnatural fertilizers disrupts the natural balance of phosphorus in the ecosystem and has negative effects on the Phosphorus Cycle.Rate this question:
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Oct 25, 2024Quiz Edited by
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May 10, 2010Quiz Created by
Phosphorus