kénciklusban

The Hungarian term "kénciklusban" translates to "in the sulfur cycle" in English. It refers to the biogeochemical processes that involve the movement and transformation of sulfur compounds through the Earth's atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. The sulfur cycle is crucial for life, as sulfur is an essential component of amino acids (cysteine and methionine) and proteins, as well as vitamins like biotin and thiamine.

Key processes within the sulfur cycle include weathering of rocks releasing sulfur-containing minerals, oxidation of sulfides to sulfates by microorganisms, reduction of sulfates back to sulfides in anaerobic environments, and the uptake of sulfur by plants and its assimilation into organic compounds. Atmospheric sulfur dioxide, often released from volcanic activity and the combustion of fossil fuels, can be converted to sulfuric acid, contributing to acid rain.

Human activities, particularly industrial processes and the burning of coal and oil, have significantly impacted the sulfur cycle by increasing the amount of sulfur dioxide released into the atmosphere. This can lead to environmental problems such as acidification of soils and water bodies, damage to vegetation, and corrosion of buildings and materials. Understanding and managing the sulfur cycle is therefore important for environmental sustainability.