On a piece of paper draw the nitrogen and the carbon cycle for a terrestrial ecosystem. The cycles should show the detail of the transformation of the element, where the transformation occurs, as well as biotic and abiotic components. Now, starting with the animal, write out your description of the nitrogen cycle then describe the carbon cycle.
On a piece of paper draw the nitrogen and the carbon cycle for a
Now, starting with the animal, write out your description of the nitrogen cycle then describe the carbon cycle.
Carbon and nitrogen are important macronutrients for every life form. The carbon atom makes the skeleton of the vast majority of the biomolecules. Nitrogen atom is a constituent of nucleic acid, proteins, and some sugar molecules. These elements are therefore indispensable for the survival and metabolism of any organism.
Carbon cycle
The carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is fixed by plants to form carbohydrates and biomass. This process uses light energy from the sun. The animals feed upon plant biomass and perform respiration to release carbon dioxide into the environment. The dead remains of plants and animals are broken down by the saprophytic organism to return the carbon into the soil. Some remains are buried deep inside the earth where high heat and pressure convert them into fossil fuels. These fossil fuels are used by man-made factories that release carbon dioxide upon the burning of fossil fuels. Plant performs respiration during night time to oxidize the carbon fixed by them and release carbon dioxide.
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