DAUR BIOGEOKIMIA SULFUR

Summary

This presentation explains the biogeochemical cycle of sulfur (belerang), highlighting its role in the environment. It begins with the release of sulfur gases like SO2, SO4, and H2S from industrial and volcanic activities. These gases mix with clouds and rain, leading to acid rain, which harms ecosystems and buildings. Sulfur is absorbed by plants in the form of sulfate, and animals obtain it through their diet. After death, decomposers break down organisms, releasing sulfur back into the soil, contributing to fossil fuel formation. This cycle is continuous, sustaining life. The presentation concludes with a note on the creation of an educational model using materials like cardboard, fabric, and HVS paper.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sulfur (or sulfur) plays a critical role in the biogeochemical cycle and is a key component in the formation of proteins in living organisms.
• 😀 Sulfur is released into the atmosphere through industrial and volcanic activities in the form of gases like SO2, SO4, and H2S.
• 😀 These sulfur gases interact with water in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid, contributing to the acidity of rain.
• 😀 Acid rain, or 'acid precipitation', is a result of the sulfuric acid formed, which is corrosive and can damage ecosystems, organisms, and buildings.
• 😀 Sulfate (SO4 2-) is the primary form of sulfur found in soil, which plants absorb for their sulfur needs.
• 😀 Animals fulfill their sulfur requirements by consuming plants, thereby incorporating sulfur into the food chain.
• 😀 Upon the death of living organisms, decomposers like fungi and bacteria break down the organic sulfur in their bodies.
• 😀 Aerobic decomposition of organic sulfur results in sulfate ions that can be utilized by plants again, while anaerobic decomposition produces toxic H2S gas.
• 😀 Dead organisms can eventually become fossil fuels over time, which are then used in industrial processes and as fuel for vehicles.
• 😀 The sulfur biogeochemical cycle is a continuous process that ensures sulfur is constantly replenished for use by living organisms.

Q & A

What is the role of sulfur in living organisms?

Sulfur is an essential component of proteins in living organisms and plays a significant role in various biological processes.

How does sulfur enter the atmosphere?

Sulfur enters the atmosphere through volcanic activities and industrial emissions, releasing gases such as sulfur dioxide (SO₂), sulfate (SO₄), and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S).

What happens to sulfur when it mixes with water in the atmosphere?

When sulfur gases mix with water in the atmosphere, they form sulfur compounds like sulfuric acid, which can lead to acid rain.

What is acid rain, and how does it affect the environment?

Acid rain is rain with a high concentration of sulfur compounds, making it acidic. It can harm living organisms, corrode buildings, and negatively impact the environment.

How do plants and animals acquire sulfur?

Plants absorb sulfur from the soil in the form of sulfate (SO₄²⁻), and animals obtain sulfur by consuming plants, thus acquiring it through the food chain.

What role do decomposers play in the sulfur cycle?

Decomposers, like fungi and bacteria, break down dead organisms and convert their sulfur into either sulfate (in aerobic conditions) or hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) in anaerobic conditions.

What happens to sulfur in the soil?

In the soil, sulfur exists in various forms, including sulfate, inorganic sulfur, and organic sulfur. Plants take up sulfate from the soil, which is later incorporated into the food chain.

What is the impact of sulfur emissions on rainwater?

Sulfur emissions can acidify rainwater, leading to acid rain. This process is particularly harmful when sulfur content in rain is too high, as it affects ecosystems and infrastructure.

How does sulfur contribute to the formation of fossil fuels?

Sulfur from dead organisms, over time, becomes part of fossil fuels, which can later be used in industries or as fuel for vehicles, continuing the sulfur cycle.

Why is the sulfur cycle important for sustaining life on Earth?

The sulfur cycle is vital because it ensures a continuous supply of sulfur for all living organisms, which is necessary for the formation of proteins and other biological functions.