The Phosphorus Cycle
Explore the phosphorus cycle, its stages, and its importance to living organisms and ecosystems.
Includes
Standards
Topics
The Phosphorus Cycle
Name:
Date:
Score:
Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability.
1. Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for all living things and is a key component of DNA, RNA, and .
2. Unlike the carbon and nitrogen cycles, the phosphorus cycle does not have a phase.
3. The primary reservoir for phosphorus is in and sediments.
4. The process by which phosphorus is released from rocks into the soil and water is called .
5. Plants absorb phosphorus from the soil in the form of .
1. Which of the following is NOT a major reservoir for phosphorus?
Atmosphere
Rocks
Soil
Water
2. How do animals obtain phosphorus?
By breathing it in from the atmosphere
By drinking water
By eating plants or other animals
Through photosynthesis
1. The phosphorus cycle is considered a slow cycle.
True
False
2. Human activities, such as the use of fertilizers, can significantly impact the phosphorus cycle.
True
False
1. Briefly explain the role of decomposers in the phosphorus cycle.
2. What is eutrophication and how is it related to the phosphorus cycle?