biogeochemische

Biogeochemistry is the science that studies the chemical, biological, geological, and physical processes that govern the distributions and movements of chemical elements within the Earth system. It integrates biology, geology, chemistry, and ecology to understand how living organisms interact with their inorganic surroundings and how these interactions shape environmental conditions over time.

Key focus areas are the biogeochemical cycles, notably carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur cycles. These cycles involve weathering of rocks, fixation of atmospheric gases by photosynthesis and microbial activity, mineralization and decomposition of organic matter, nutrient uptake by organisms, and losses through respiration, leaching, or gaseous emissions. Microbial communities often drive the most rapid and transformative steps.

Methodologically, biogeochemistry relies on field measurements, laboratory experiments, isotopic tracing, and mathematical models to quantify fluxes and reservoirs at scales from soils and rivers to oceans and the atmosphere. It uses ecological stoichiometry and mass balance to interpret data and predict responses to environmental change.

Historically, the field emerged from the integration of geology and biology in the early 20th century, with contributions from scientists such as Vladimir Vernadsky, who emphasized the role of living matter in planetary chemistry, and later researchers who formalized cycles and budgets. Today it is a cornerstone of Earth system science and environmental research.

Applications include understanding and mitigating climate change, improving soil fertility and water quality, assessing nutrient limitation in ecosystems, and guiding pollution remediation and sustainable resource management.