Question

Write important features of a sedimentary cycle in an ecosystem.

Answer 1

Sedimentary cycle is a cyclic process which leads to deposition of substances by which the chemical substance moves through living and nonliving components of the earth. The substances which move through a sedimentary cycle are iron, calcium, phosphorus, sulphur etc.

Complete answer:
In the atmosphere different types of biogeochemical cycles are going around. It includes sedimentary cycles like iron, calcium, phosphorus; gaseous cycles include nitrogen, carbon, oxygen cycle etc. In these cycles, the substance is absorbed or utilised from the surrounding by plants, animals or microbes and returned back to the atmosphere. This leads to cyclic flow of substances.

Let us see the example of phosphorus cycle- In this the phosphorus moves in a cyclic manner through rocks, water, soil and sediments and living organisms. Rain and weathering helps the rocks release the phosphate ion and other minerals. These minerals are absorbed by the plants and animals for carrying out their metabolic activities. When the living matter dies, it decays and the organic phosphorus returns back to the soil.

The importance of sedimentary cycles are-
- The elements or the sediments are released from the nutrient reservoirs present in the lithosphere via. weathering.
- The sedimentary cycle is relatively slower than the gaseous cycle.
- The elements like phosphorus, iron, sulphur are obtained from the earth crust that’s why they are called sedimentary cycles.

Note: Phosphorus and calcium are essential minerals for living beings. It is essential for strong bones and teeth and also they act as cofactors in several metabolic activities. Iron is an essential component of haemoglobin which is the carrier of oxygen.