The phosphorus cycle differs from the carbon cycle in that:
A) there is little or no human impact on the phosphorus cycle.
B) phosphorus is not a critical component of living organisms.
C) the hydrosphere plays a role in the phosphorus cycle.
D) the atmosphere does not contribute to the phosphorus cycle.
E) plants play a role in the carbon cycle, but have no role in the phosphorus cycle.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The phosphorus cycle is unique compared to the carbon cycle because it does not involve the atmosphere as a significant component. Phosphorus moves through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, but unlike carbon, it does not have a gaseous phase under normal conditions on Earth, making atmospheric contributions negligible.

The Phosphorus Cycle Differs from the Carbon Cycle in That