Question

How do humans affect the phosphorus cycle?

Answer 1

Humans impact the phosphorous cycle in a major way by their use of the element as a major component in fertilizers.

Explanation:

The atmosphere plays no significant role in the biogeochemical cycle of phosphorous. Phosphorous remains locked in land and water being very slowly available to plants. It becomes a limiting nutrient for plants.

Humans have greatly influenced the phosphorus cycle. It has been mined by them, converted into fertilizers, and transported around the world.

These activities have resulted in run offs from farm water into pools and lakes which then turn phosphorous rich. The enrichment has in turn resulted in algal blooms (excessive algal growths). The algal blooms take out the dissolved oxygen from the water bodies which kills off aquatic life.

Humans need to be judicious in their use of phosphorous for the health of the biosphere.

Reference:Schlesinger W.H. Biogeochemistry: An analysis of global change. (1991)

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