Microbial Roles in Carbon, Nitrogen, and Sulfur Cycles | Chapter 21 Summary from Brock Biology of Microorganisms
Microbial Roles in Carbon, Nitrogen, and Sulfur Cycles | Chapter 21 Summary from Brock Biology of Microorganisms Microorganisms are essential drivers of Earth's nutrient cycles. Chapter 21 of Brock Biology of Microorganisms provides a comprehensive look at how microbes facilitate the cycling of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, iron, and other key elements. These microscopic chemists mediate redox transformations, form syntrophic partnerships, and shape global climate feedbacks. This chapter also addresses how human activities are altering these natural microbial processes. Watch the full podcast summary below and subscribe to Last Minute Lecture for more high-yield microbiology insights. Carbon Cycle CO₂ is cycled through the biosphere, atmosphere, ocean, and lithosphere . Photosynthesis fixes CO₂; respiration and decomposition release it. Microbial decomposition is the major natural source of atmospheric CO₂. Methanogenesis produces CH₄ in anoxic environment...