Which of the following cycles does NOT involve the atmosphere as a major component?

Which of the following cycles does NOT involve the atmosphere as a major component?

• A. Nitrogen cycle
• B. Water cycle
• C. Phosphorus cycle
• D. Carbon cycle

Answer: (C)

The phosphorus cycle does not involve the atmosphere as a major component because phosphorus primarily cycles through the lithosphere (Earth's crust) and hydrosphere (water bodies) without entering the gaseous state. Unlike the nitrogen, water, and carbon cycles, which have significant atmospheric parts—where gases transition in and out of these cycles—the phosphorus cycle relies on the weathering of rocks to release phosphorus into the soil and water, where it can be taken up by plants and other organisms. This cycle is primarily terrestrial and aquatic, making it distinct in its lack of an atmospheric phase.

The phosphorus cycle does not involve the atmosphere as a major component because phosphorus primarily cycles through the lithosphere (Earth's crust) and hydrosphere (water bodies) without entering the gaseous state. Unlike the nitrogen, water, and carbon cycles, which have significant atmospheric parts—where gases transition in and out of these cycles—the phosphorus cycle relies on the weathering of rocks to release phosphorus into the soil and water, where it can be taken up by plants and other organisms. This cycle is primarily terrestrial and aquatic, making it distinct in its lack of an atmospheric phase.