BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES

Biogeochemical Cycle : the cycling of chemical elements required by life between the living and nonliving parts of the environment. Some examples of these chemical elements are H2O, P, S, N2, O2 and C.

These elements cycle in either a gas cycle or a sedimentary cycle; some cycle as both a gas and sediment.

In a gas cycle elements move through the atmosphere. Main reservoirs are the atmosphere and the ocean.

In a sedimentary cycle elements move from land to water to sediment. Main reservoirs are the soil and sedimentary rocks.
 
 

Gas Cycles:                                        Sedimentary Cycles:

Carbon                                                Phosphorus
Nitrogen                                              Sulfur
Oxygen