The Phosphorus Cycle | Earth Science | Quiz

Phosphorus is difficult for plants and animals to access in nature because

it reacts quickly with other elements, like oxygen.

most phosphorus in the environment is bound to carbon, nitrogen, and hydrogen.

it is typically found as a phosphate.

most phosphorus in the environment is stored in reservoirs.
Dr. Schindler and his team of researchers at the Experimental Lakes Area noticed a significant growth in algae when they added fertilizer heavy in _________ to the water.

phosphorus

carbon

nitrogen

calcium
Without phosphorus, living beings cannot grow, reproduce, or move. This is because phosphorus

forms part of the structure of DNA and RNA.

provides structure to cell membranes.

is needed for energy transport in cells.

all of the choices
Phosphorus does NOT travel through which of the following spheres?

lithosphere

atmosphere

biosphere

geosphere
Review the diagram below. Which statement BEST reflects what is shown?

The phosphorus cycle moves in one direction – from soil to plant to animal.

Fungi, plants, and animals are the main converters of elemental phosphorus to phosphates.

The phosphorus cycle is made up of many, smaller cycles.

Phosphates in solution can only move into soil.
Humans do not influence the phosphorus cycle in any significant way.

true

false
The Experimental Lakes Area was an important contribution to environmental science because

it showed how dangerous algae can be to an aquatic ecosystem.

it made clear connections between phosphate fertilizers and eutrophication in lakes.

it was the first instance of extreme science.

it resulted in recorded data on depth, visibility, and conductivity in 463 lakes.