View source for Biogeochemistry

==Overview==
Biogeochemistry is an interdisciplinary field that explores the interactions between biological, geological, and chemical processes on Earth. This field is crucial in understanding the natural environment and how human activities influence it. Biogeochemistry involves the study of the cycles of chemical elements, such as [[Carbon cycle|carbon]], [[Nitrogen cycle|nitrogen]], and [[Phosphorus cycle|phosphorus]], among others, in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

[[Image:Detail-40921.jpg|thumb|center|A view of a lush green forest with a river flowing through it, representing the interconnectedness of biological, geological, and chemical processes.|class=only_on_mobile]]
[[Image:Detail-40922.jpg|thumb|center|A view of a lush green forest with a river flowing through it, representing the interconnectedness of biological, geological, and chemical processes.|class=only_on_desktop]]

==History==
The term "biogeochemistry" was first coined by Russian scientist [[Vladimir Vernadsky|Vladimir Ivanovich Vernadsky]] in the early 20th century. Vernadsky's work laid the foundation for the field, emphasizing the significant role that living organisms play in Earth's chemical cycles.

==Chemical Cycles==
Biogeochemical cycles are the pathways by which chemicals circulate through ecosystems. These cycles are fundamental to life on Earth, as they regulate the availability of essential nutrients.

===Carbon Cycle===
The [[Carbon cycle|carbon cycle]] is one of the most critical biogeochemical cycles. It involves the movement of carbon, in various forms, through the biosphere, atmosphere, oceans, and geosphere. 

===Nitrogen Cycle===
The [[Nitrogen cycle|nitrogen cycle]] is another essential biogeochemical cycle. Nitrogen is a crucial element for all living organisms as it is a key component of amino acids and nucleic acids. 

===Phosphorus Cycle===
The [[Phosphorus cycle|phosphorus cycle]] is unique among major biogeochemical cycles because it does not include a gas phase. Phosphorus, an essential element for life, moves through the biosphere in a cycle that involves weathering, absorption by plants, consumption by animals, and return to the environment through decomposition.

==Biogeochemical Processes==
Biogeochemical processes are the physical, chemical, and biological activities that drive the movement of elements through Earth's spheres. These processes include photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, weathering, and sedimentation, among others.

===Photosynthesis===
[[Photosynthesis]] is a critical biogeochemical process in which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy, usually from the Sun, into chemical energy in the form of glucose.

===Respiration===
[[Cellular respiration]] is a set of metabolic reactions that take place in the cells of organisms to convert biochemical energy from nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and then release waste products.

===Decomposition===
[[Decomposition]] is the process by which organic substances are broken down into simpler organic matter. It is a critical process in biogeochemical cycles as it returns nutrients to the soil.

==Human Impact on Biogeochemical Cycles==
Human activities have significantly altered biogeochemical cycles. Industrialization, agriculture, deforestation, and urbanization have disrupted the natural balance of these cycles, leading to environmental issues such as climate change, eutrophication, and acid rain.

==Future Directions==
The field of biogeochemistry continues to evolve, with new research focusing on the impacts of climate change on biogeochemical cycles, the role of microbes in these cycles, and the potential for biogeochemical processes to mitigate environmental damage.

==See Also==
* [[Ecology]]
* [[Environmental science]]
* [[Geochemistry]]
* [[Geobiology]]
* [[Hydrology]]

[[Category:Biogeochemistry]]
[[Category:Environmental science]]
[[Category:Geochemistry]]