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1. What is the difference between the cycling of matter and the cycling of
energy in ecosystems?
Answer: Matter is cycled through ecosystems, while energy flows through
ecosystems. Matter is recycled, whereas energy is constantly being input
into the ecosystem.
2. How does the cycling of carbon differ from the cycling of nitrogen in
ecosystems?
Answer: Carbon is primarily cycled through the atmosphere, whereas
nitrogen is cycled through soil and living organisms.
3. Describe the role of decomposers in the cycling of matter in
ecosystems.
Answer: Decomposers break down dead organic matter into simpler
compounds, releasing nutrients back into the ecosystem.
4. How does the cycling of water impact the cycling of matter in
ecosystems?
Answer: Water is essential for the transport of nutrients and the
breakdown of organic matter by decomposers.
5. Explain the concept of a biogeochemical cycle and provide an example.
Answer: Biogeochemical cycles describe the pathways that elements take
as they move through living organisms, the atmosphere, and the
lithosphere. An example is the carbon cycle.
6. What is the significance of the phosphorus cycle in ecosystems?
Answer: Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for plant growth, and its
cycling is crucial for maintaining ecosystem productivity.
7. How do humans impact the cycling of matter and energy in
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