Fosforikiertokulku

Fosforikiertokulku refers to the biogeochemical cycle of phosphorus. Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for all living organisms, playing a critical role in DNA, RNA, and ATP. Unlike carbon or nitrogen, phosphorus does not have a significant gaseous phase, making its cycle primarily terrestrial and aquatic. The main reservoir of phosphorus is in rocks and sediments, where it exists in the form of phosphate minerals.

Weathering of these rocks slowly releases phosphate into the soil and water. Plants absorb dissolved phosphate from the soil and water, incorporating it into their tissues. Animals obtain phosphorus by consuming plants or other animals. When organisms die, decomposers break down organic matter, returning phosphate to the soil and water.

A significant portion of phosphorus enters aquatic ecosystems through runoff from agricultural fields, where it is used as fertilizer. This excess phosphorus can lead to eutrophication, a process where excessive algal growth depletes oxygen levels in the water, harming aquatic life. Human activities, such as mining phosphate rock for fertilizer and detergents, have significantly altered the natural phosphorus cycle. Recycling phosphorus from waste streams is an important area of research and development to mitigate environmental impacts and ensure sustainable phosphorus availability.