Cycling of Materials in Ecosystems

Recall that numerous different materials continuously cycle through both the abiotic and biotic components of an ecosystem.

Explain the critical importance of the carbon cycle and the water cycle to the survival of living organisms.

Understand that all materials within the living world are recycled to provide the necessary building blocks for future organisms.

Describe how the carbon cycle operates by returning carbon from organisms back to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide, which is subsequently used by plants during photosynthesis.

Describe the water cycle as the continuous evaporation and precipitation of water, which provides fresh water for plants and animals on land before draining into the seas.

Recognise that explicit knowledge of the nitrogen cycle is not required.

Explain the vital role of microorganisms in cycling materials through an ecosystem, specifically by decomposing matter to return carbon to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide and vital mineral ions back to the soil.