Question

What is the phosphorus cycle?

Answer 1

Movement of Phosphorus through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere in a phase known as the phosphorus cycle. The primary biological role of phosphorus is to aid in the creation of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA molecules.

Complete answer:
The phosphorus cycle is a slow process as detailed below:
Weathering: Since rocks are the primary source of phosphorus, the first step in the phosphorus cycle is to weather the phosphorus out of the rocks. Phosphorus is washed onto the soil as a result of weather conditions such as rain and other sources of erosion.
Absorption by plants and animals: Plants, fungi, and microorganisms can consume phosphorus and expand once it is in the soil. Furthermore, phosphorus may be washed into nearby water bodies. Plants can also absorb phosphorus directly from the water and expand as a result. Animals get phosphorus from drinking water and consuming vegetables, in addition to plants.
Decomposition and returning to the environment: Decomposition of plants and animals results in the return of phosphorus to the ecosystem through the water or soil. The phosphorus is then used by plants and animals in these settings, and step two of the cycle is repeated.

Note:
Due to a number of human activities such as the use of fertilizers, food delivery, and artificial eutrophication, humans have had a major effect on the phosphorus cycle. Phosphorus-containing fertilisers raise phosphorus levels in the soil and are particularly harmful when washed into local aquatic environments. Natural eutrophication occurs when phosphorus is applied to water at a rate that is consistent with natural processes. Over time, a natural supply of phosphorus adds nutrients to the water and helps to boost the ecosystem's productivity.