0
Biogeochemical cycles are basically of two types:
a) Gaseous cycles like carbon (as carbon dioxide), oxygen, nitrogen, etc.
b) Sedimentary cycles like sulphur, phosphorus, etc.
In gaseous cycles, the elements have a main reservoir in the gaseous phase, and the reservoir pool is the atmosphere or water. The biogenetic materials involved in circulation pass through a gaseous phase before completing the cycle.
In sedimentary cycles, the elements main reservoir pool is lithosphere and the biogenetic materials involved in circulation are non-gaseous. The sedimentary cycles are usually very slow as the elements may get locked up in rocks and go out of circulation for long periods.
Still curious? Ask our experts.
Chat with our AI personalities
Professor
Rafa
DevinThe gaseous cycle involves the movement of elements like carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen through the atmosphere, biosphere, and geosphere. In contrast, the sedimentary cycle involves the weathering, erosion, transport, and deposition of rocks and minerals over long geological timescales. The gaseous cycle primarily affects the atmosphere and living organisms, while the sedimentary cycle primarily involves the Earth's crust and rock formations.
Add your answer:
Earn +20 pts
Does the rock cycle always flow in 1 direction?
No, the rock cycle is a continuous process where rocks can be transformed between different types, such as igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. The cycle does not have a fixed direction and rocks can move between different stages depending on geological processes.
How does weathering relate to the rock cycle?
Weathering is a key process in the rock cycle because it breaks down rocks into smaller pieces, contributing to the formation of sedimentary rocks. These sediments can then be eroded, transported, and eventually compacted and cemented to form sedimentary rocks. So, weathering is integral to the creation of sedimentary rocks in the rock cycle.
Is it possible for rocks in the rock cycle to skip becoming sedimentary rock?
Yes, it is possible for rocks in the rock cycle to skip becoming sedimentary rock. Rocks can undergo processes such as metamorphism or melting to transform directly into igneous or metamorphic rocks without passing through a sedimentary stage.
What is the endpoint of a rock cycle?
The endpoint of the rock cycle is the formation of a new rock from the weathering, erosion, deposition, compaction, and cementation of existing rocks. This process is continuous and cyclical, with rocks transitioning between the three types: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.
What does the rock cycle have anything to do with fossils?
The rock cycle is important for understanding how fossils are preserved. Fossils are typically formed when the remains of plants and animals are buried in sediments like sand or mud. Over time, these sediments can turn into sedimentary rock, which helps preserve the fossils. Through the processes of erosion, deposition, and lithification, the rock cycle plays a role in the formation and preservation of fossils.
