COPY: Biogeochemical Cycles and Carbon Cycle

Human activity has significantly increased carbon emissions by utilizing fossil fuels and causing deforestation.

Melting ice sheets and thawing permafrost release trapped greenhouse gases like CO2 and methane back into the atmosphere, enhancing the greenhouse effect.

Nitrogen and phosphorus are used in fertilizers, leading to nutrient runoff that disrupts natural biogeochemical cycles.

<p>The main source of nitrogen for fertilizers is atmospheric N2, which is extracted and processed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Coal, petroleum, and natural gas release stored carbon upon combustion, significantly increasing atmospheric CO2 levels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Albedo influences local climates by determining how much sunlight is reflected; higher albedo from ice sheets results in cooler surroundings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Deforestation increases albedo, which can contribute to more reflected sunlight but has complex and varied effects on local and global temperatures</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>As soil accumulates excess fertilisers, it leads to reduced plant health and growth, prompting farmers to apply even more fertilisers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>It can cause eutrophication, resulting in harmful algal blooms and depleted oxygen levels in the water.</p> Signup and view all the answers