2. Phosphorus atoms are an integral part of many types
of biological molecules and are essential to life. For
example, Phosphorus atoms are components of the
chemical backbone of DNA- the genetic material of
cells. Phosphorus atoms are also found in
phospholipids, which make up cellular membranes
The Phosphorus Cycle
3. The main phosphorus reservoir on Earth are found
within the rocks of the crust. During weathering, the
rocks release phosphorus into the form of
phosphate into the soil. Phosphate then enters the
plants (or any other producers), and from these
producers, it is consumed by the rest of the food
chain.
Because phosphorus does not enter the atmosphere
easily, it is said to have a sedimentary cycle.
Phosphorus cycles within land and ocean ecosystem
before it falls as sediment to the ocean bottom and
incorporates to the rock again.
5. HOW DO HUMANS ACQUIRE PHOSPHORUS?
Weathering
Phosphate in soil
Plants, crops
Animals
Decomposers
Runoff
Phosphate in Water
Marine Organisms
Ocean Sediments
6. How we intervene with the cycle?
MINING / FERTILIZING
SEWAGE TREATMENT