Chapter 2, Problem 37A

Summary Introduction

To predict:

The effect of additional mountain building in the Rocky Mountains on the levels of phosphorus in the surrounding valleys

Introduction : Phosphorus cycle is a mineral cycle. It is very important cycle for the ecosystem.

Phosphorus cycle has a short term cycle and a long term cycle. It is an element that is essential for growth and development of organisms.

Answer to Problem 37A

If additional mountain building comes up in the Rocky Mountains, the levels of phosphorus in the surrounding valleys will increase which will further increase the growth of plants and animals.

Explanation of Solution

  

The above illustration represents a phosphorus cycle. Phosphorus is an element that is essential for growth and development of organisms. The cycle has a short term cycle and a long term cycle. In the short-term cycle, phosphorus in the form of phosphates is cycled from producers to consumers. When the organisms die or produce waste products, decomposers return the phosphorus back to the soil where it can be reused. It moves from short term cycle to long term cycle through sedimentation to form rocks. Weathering of rocks that contain phosphorus returns the element to the cycle. So when a new mountain building comes up in Rocky Mountains, the levels of phosphorus will increase in the valleys due to erosion and weathering of mountain rocks. The increased levels of phosphorus will boost the growth and developments of plants and animals.