Which of the following would most likely take longest to replace if lost from a terrestrial ecosystem?
A) sulfur
B) carbon
C) oxygen
D) phosphorous

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Phosphorous is an essential element for many biological processes, including DNA and ATP synthesis. It is also typically found in low concentrations in soils, making it less available for use by plants and other organisms. As a result, if phosphorous were to be lost from a terrestrial ecosystem, it may take longer to replace and could potentially limit growth and productivity of the ecosystem. Sulfur, carbon, and oxygen are all more abundant in terrestrial ecosystems and can be cycled relatively quickly.

Which of the Following Would Most Likely Take Longest to Replace