Chapter 2, Problem 29A

Summary Introduction

To replace:

The italicized word with a correct vocabulary term in the given sentence

Introduction : The exchange of matter through the biosphere is called biogeochemical cycle. It involves living organisms, geological processes and chemical processes.

Answer to Problem 29A

The movement of chemicals on a global scale from abiotic through biotic parts of the environment is a biogeochemical cycle.

Explanation of Solution

Plants obtain the nutrients from soil, water and air which are then converted to various organic compounds. The nutrients flow through different organisms in the ecosystem. The exchange of nutrients through the biosphere is called biogeochemical cycle. The chemicals or nutrients move from abiotic part of the ecosystem which consists of air, soil and water, to biotic part of ecosystem which consists of plants, animals and decomposers. Lithospheric process is related to changes on the surface of Earth. Hence, this is not the correct word for movement of chemicals from abiotic to biotic parts of the environment.