Which of the following statements about the phosphorus cycle is true?
a.
in living organisms, phosphorus can be found in nucleic acids.
b.
phosphorus in aquatic ecosystems is only found in sediment.
c.
elevated levels of phosphorus in aquatic ecosystems is always beneficial.
d.
the soil plays no part in the phosphorus cycle.

The phosphorus is found in the nucleic acids of the living organisms. Hence, option A is correct.

Further Explanation:

Phosphorus is known to be an essential nutrient present in the macromolecules of the humans as well as other organisms. This also includes DNA. Phosphorus cycle is slow and most of it exists in the form of phosphate ion. It is often known to be a limiting nutrient and hence, restricts the growth in the aquatic ecosystems. Phosphorus is highly essential nutrient for living organisms and the key part of nucleic acids such as DNA and of the phospholipids which make the cell membranes. It also makes up the supportive elements of the bones just like calcium phosphate.

Phosphate is mainly found in the sedimentary rocks and as the rocks weather-wear down and over a long time periods, the phosphorus slowly leaches into the water and soil surfaces. Mineral dust, volcanic ash, and aerosols may be considered as significant sources of phosphorus. Phosphate elements found in the soil can be extracted by the plants and from there it may move to animals which eat the plants.

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Answer Details:

Grade: High school

Subject: Biology

Chapter: Nucleic Acids

Keywords:

Phosphorous, phosphorus cycle, phosphates, animals, plants, soil, water surfaces, aquatic organisms, living organisms, DNA, nucleic acids.

there really is life in the deepest part