Nutrient Cycling (Phosphorus, Nitrogen, etc.)
the continuous movement and transformation of elements like nitrogen,
phosphorus, and carbon, driven by plants, microbes, and physical factors
(water flow, oxygen levels) within the ecosystem
This process involves uptake by plants, decomposition, and transformation by microorganisms
(denitrification, methanogenesis), with cycles influenced by water levels, temperature, and oxygen levels,
although disruptions can occur due to excessive nutrient loading.
-basically write the carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycles here
Aquatic Chemistry
Universal Solvent: Water's polarity makes it an excellent solvent, dissolving
many substances; however, natural waters contain various dissolved gases,
minerals, and organic compounds.
pH & Alkalinity: acid-base chemistry, including the role of bicarbonate (HCO3)
and how biological processes (like photosynthesis) can alter pH.
-Acid-base chemistry:
Acids and Bases - Basic Introduction - Chemistry
-Bicarbonate: acts a buffer in environments, stabilizing PH levels. It helps mitigate ocean
acidification caused by rising CO2 levels; also involved in photosynthesis
Redox (Oxidation-Reduction): electron transfer reactions that affect the fate of
elements and contaminants. These help keep the carbon, sulfur, and nitrogen cycles
balanced. They basically maintain homeostasis in the environment.
Oxidation = electron loss, reduction = electron gain (the oxidation states of reactants change)
Two types: Electron transfer (one electron switches atoms) and atom transfer (an atom jumps
from one substrate to another, such as it does in the rusting of iron/other oxide reactions)
Speciation: The distribution of different chemical forms (species) of an element
(e.g., different forms of phosphorus or nitrogen).
A chemical species refers to a specific form of a chemical substance that has a unique and quantifiable
structure. This can include:
Atoms: Individual elements, such as a single atom of oxygen (O) or helium (He).
Molecules: Groups of atoms bonded together, like water (H₂O) or carbon dioxide (CO₂).
Ions: Atoms or molecules that have gained or lost electrons, resulting in a net charge, such as sodium
ions (Na⁺) or chloride ions (Cl⁻).
Radicals: Species that contain unpaired electrons, making them highly reactive, such as hydroxyl
radicals (•OH)
Elemental speciation refers to the distribution of an element among different chemical species in a given
environment.
