What does the term 'biogeochemical cycle' refer to?

The term 'biogeochemical cycle' refers to the processes through which essential nutrients circulate within an ecosystem. This involves the movement of elements and compounds between biological organisms (bio), the geosphere (geo), and the atmosphere (chemical). Each nutrient, such as carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus, is part of these cycles, transitioning through various forms and locations.

In a biogeochemical cycle, nutrients are taken up by organisms, incorporated into their biological processes, and eventually returned to the environment through decomposition, waste, or other means. This cycling is crucial for maintaining the health and sustainability of ecosystems, ensuring that living organisms have access to the nutrients they need for growth and reproduction.

Understanding biogeochemical cycles is essential for managing resources effectively, especially in fields such as agriculture, environmental science, and ecology. The effectiveness of these cycles helps regulate ecosystem processes, support food webs, and maintain environmental quality.

While energy movement in ecosystems is an important concept, it is distinct and separate from nutrient cycling. Models of population growth and mechanical energy processes also cover different aspects of ecological and engineering principles.