Which processes move essential elements through living and nonliving components of an ecosystem?

Which processes move essential elements through living and nonliving components of an ecosystem?

• A. Photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, mineral weathering
• B. Evaporation and condensation
• C. Migration of animals
• D. Genetic recombination

Answer: (A)

Elements move between living things and their surroundings through a set of interconnected processes that transfer matter to and from living tissue and the nonliving environment. Photosynthesis pulls carbon from the air and water to build organic matter in plants, taking inorganic material into living organisms. Respiration then returns some of that carbon back to the nonliving reservoir as carbon dioxide, cycling elements out of living matter. Decomposition breaks down dead organisms and waste, recycling nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon back into soil and water so they can fuel new growth. Mineral weathering slowly releases minerals from rocks into the soil and water, making essential elements available to living communities. Together, these processes link the living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem and sustain biogeochemical cycles. Evaporation and condensation belong to the water cycle, not nutrient movement; migration moves organisms rather than nutrients; genetic recombination is a genetic process, not part of nutrient cycling.