Question

According to the diagram, what sources contribute to the phosphorus found in soil? According to the diagram, phosphorus found in soil contributes phosphorus to what other sources?

Answer 1

Answer:

1. Phosphorus  in soil originates from (white arrows):

- plant residue,

- animal manures and biosolids

- atmospheric deposition (dust)

- mineral fertilizers

These sources all add to the phosphorus found in soil in both organic or inorganic forms.

2. Phosphorus from soil is released to (red arrows):

- organic phosphorous through:

-->plant uptake in the form of soluble P. This soluble form has several of its own sources such as primary minerals,  mineral surfaces, secondary compounds etc.

--> immobilization where microorganisms convert and absorb inorganic P

- phosphates in solution through:

-->runoff and erosion

-->a small portion though leaching