Question

Which of the following elements have only the sedimentary type of nutrient cycle?

• A. Carbon
• B. Hydrogen
• C. Nitrogen
• D. Phosphorus

Answer 1

The correct option is D Phosphorus

Sedimentary cycles involve the transportation of matter through the ground to water; that is from the lithosphere to the hydrosphere. Most phosphates originate as salts in ocean sediments or in rocks. Over time, geological uplift brings these sediments to the surface, and weathering releases the phosphate ions. Plants can then absorb these phosphates from the soil and use it in cellular processes. Phosphate taken up by plants may then be passed on to animals when the plant is consumed by herbivore that, in turn, may be consumed by carnivores. After death, the animal or plant decays, and the phosphates are returned to the soil by way of bacterial decomposition. Runoff from the land may carry leached phosphate back to the ocean, where it eventually enters sediments and is reincorporated into rock.

Therefore, the correct answer is option D.