In the biogeochemical cycle, what happens when atoms and molecules change?

In the biogeochemical cycle, when atoms and molecules change, the processes often involve energy changes. This can include the release of energy or the consumption of energy during various reactions, such as photosynthesis or cellular respiration. For instance, in photosynthesis, plants absorb energy from sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Conversely, in cellular respiration, organisms break down glucose to release energy for cellular functions.

The focus on energy being released or consumed reflects the dynamic nature of these cycles, where energy transformations are integral to maintaining life processes and ecological interactions. Thus, understanding these energy changes is crucial for interpreting how life on Earth sustains itself and interacts within various ecosystems.