1. Moving Materials Through an Ecosystem
1.2: Matter Cycles
Moving Materials Through an Ecosystem

2. Biogeochemical Cycles
Biology + geology + chemical
Life requires certain elements
Matter is not used up, it is transformed and cycles through the biotic and abiotic factors within the ecosystem

3. Water Cycle Transpiration Water from leaves of plants
Water is waste product of photosynthesis
Evaporation
Water from bodies of water to the atmosphere
Condensation
Formation of clouds: gas to liquid water in the atmosphere
Precipitation
Water from the clouds to Earth

4. Video: Water Cycle

5. Carbon Cycle Photosynthesis
Process of capturing carbon from the atmosphere
Carbon dioxide into sugar
Respiration
Breaking of sugar back into gaseous carbon dioxide and waste filled with carbon
Combustion
Burning of fossil fuels that releases dust and excess carbon dioxide into the atmosphere

6. Video: Carbon Cycle

7. Nitrogen Cycle Bacteria and Decomposers
Release nitrogen from compounds like nucleic acids and proteins from dead organisms and waste into the soil
Nitrogen fixation
Bonding nitrogen atoms into molecules that can be absorbed by plants
Nitrogen absorbed by the roots of plants or released back into the atmosphere

8. Video: Nitrogen Cycle

9. VIDEOS: Amoeba Sisters: Matter Cycles Study Jams: Water Cycle, Carbon Cycle, Nitrogen Cycle

10. Discussion Questions
Are water, carbon, and nitrogen renewable resources?
Are there such things as renewable resources?
Once pollution occurs, can it ever truly be undone?