Nutrient Cycle - GCSE Geography Definition

The nutrient cycle is a natural process where essential elements like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus move through the environment, supporting life on Earth. This cycle begins when plants absorb nutrients from the soil to grow. Animals then eat the plants, getting the nutrients they need. When plants and animals die or produce waste, decomposers like bacteria break them down, returning nutrients to the soil. This process keeps repeating, ensuring that nutrients are recycled and available for new plant growth. Understanding the nutrient cycle helps us see how life is interconnected and why it's important to protect our ecosystems.