Edexcel GCSE Natural Cycles - Carbon, Nitrogen, water cycles

• Atoms


  Exist in different forms or compounds
• Carbon


  An element that cycles in the ecosystem
• Water


  A compound that cycles in the ecosystem
• Cycling of elements and compounds

  1. Elements pass along food chains when animals eat plants and other animals

  2. Body breaks down protein into amino acids and uses them to make proteins

  3. Decomposing bacteria and fungi break down dead organisms and recycle minerals and nutrients to the environment

  4. Decomposers respire and release carbon dioxide, contributing to the carbon cycle
• Decomposition


  The breaking down of dead matter by decomposers
• Abiotic factors


  Non-living elements of an ecosystem, such as climate, temperature, water, and soil type
• Biotic factors


  Living elements of an ecosystem, such as plants and animals
• Ecosystem


  A community of animals, plants and microorganisms, together with the habitat where they live