Phosphorus Cycle
Phosphorus Cycle Cyclic movement of phosphorus in different chemical forms from the environment to organisms and then back to the environment Phosphorus NEVER enters the atmosphere! Very slow cycle
Why is it important? Used in bones, teeth, nucleic acids (DNA), phospholipids, and cell membranes
How do plants and animals get phosphorus? Plants: obtain phosphorus from water and soil Animals: obtain phosphorus from eating plants or other animals
How does phosphorus get into the soil? Erosion: wearing away of rock Weathering: chemical breakdown of rock due to precipitation
How does phosphorus get into the soil? Waste Urine and feces Decay