Problem 8 - Biology: The Dynamic Science

Question

Which of the following materials has a sedimentary cycle? a. water b. oxygen c. nitrogen d. phosphorus e. carbon

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The material that has a sedimentary cycle is D. Phosphorus.

Step 1: Exploring The Options

In this step, it's important to know what each of the substances is and how they cycle through the environment. Here is a brief understanding: \nA. Water: Water follows a hydrological cycle where it gets evaporated, condenses, and precipitates back to the earth. \nB. Oxygen: Oxygen is part of the oxygen-carbon dioxide cycle where plants take oxygen and give out carbon dioxide. \nC. Nitrogen: Nitrogen follows the nitrogen cycle. In this cycle, nitrogen is converted into several forms and changes from gas to a usable form for plants and again reverts back to its gaseous form. \nD. Phosphorus: Phosphorus follows a sedimentary cycle. Map this information with the information given in the problem and identify the suitability. \nE. Carbon: Carbon is a part of the carbon cycle where it circulates between the atmosphere, animals, soil, and plants.

Step 2: Comparing and Identifying

Upon comparing each of the options with the definition and understanding of a sedimentary cycle, it is clear that phosphorus is the only one that has a sedimentary cycle. Phosphorus originates from the earth’s crust, is taken up by living organisms, and returns to the earth after their death and decay.

Step 3: Finalizing the Response

After thoroughly comparing all of the options, it can be concluded that the correct answer to the exercise is D. Phosphorus.