UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2021

In case of which one of the following biogeochemical cycles, the weathering of rocks is the main source of release of nutrient to enter the cycle?

  1. Carbon cycle
  2. Nitrogen cycle
  3. Phosphorus cycle
  4. Sulphur cycle

Answer

Correct Answer

Phosphorus cycle

Explanation

The phosphorus cycle has no significant atmospheric reservoir; phosphate enters the cycle mainly through weathering of phosphate-bearing rocks. The carbon and nitrogen cycles have large atmospheric reservoirs, and the sulphur cycle also draws on volcanic and oceanic sources.

Topics: biogeochemical cycles, ecology, environment, phosphorus cycle