The calcium cycle is a process that influences the life of all organisms on the planet. Therefore, it is important that we all take into account what are its characteristics and importance for daily life. Next, all its aspects are developed in detail.
What is the calcium cycle?
The calcium cycle is a biogeochemical process belonging to the biogeochemical cycles of the earth that allows this mineral to carry out a circular path between living beings and their ecosystems. Calcium (Ca) is a mineral that is constantly recycled and is present internally in organisms as calcium ion (Ca2+).
In most living things, calcium forms the internal skeleton. In fact, it constitutes 99% of the total amount of the mineral present in the body. The remaining 1% is distributed in the soft tissues.
Characteristics of the biogeochemical cycle of calcium
Calcium is a soft and alkaline earth metal with a atomic mass of 40,078 Y atomic number 20. It is in the solid state and gives way to oxides that act as strong bases. Its cycle is of a sedimentary type, because it does not have a gas phase.
On the other hand, the largest reserves of calcium are found in the lithosphere. Likewise, it is a cycle related to the biogeochemical processes of water, the phosphorus cycle and the carbon cycle. The calcium in the soil is consumed by plants, and the calcium present in the oceans is absorbed by marine organisms.
Stages, steps and processes of the calcium cycle
The biogeochemical calcium cycle It is divided into two main processes. These are storage and circulation, related to the compartments where these processes occur. It is possible to find the cycle both in the earth’s crust, that is, the lithosphere, and in the bodies of water, belonging to the hydrosphere.
Geological stage
The highest concentration of calcium is found in this stage, being the fifth most abundant element in the earth’s crust. The mineral is found in limestone rocks, marble and marls in mountainous massifs.
Hydrological stage
Calcium dissolves in oceans, lakes, and rivers in the form of calcium chloride (CaCl2) and calcium carbonate (CaCO3). This mineral is deposited on the seabed to be absorbed by different living organisms.
Biological stage
It is the stage where the biogeochemical calcium cycle It has a larger circulation. In this case, the Ca2+ It is part of each and every one of the exchange mechanisms between cell membranes. It is present in bones, shells, eggshells, teeth, among others.
In this way, calcium achieves circulate through the biosphere until the death of living beings. As a consequence, it returns to sediments again to give way to the creation of other rocks over time.
Importance of the biogeochemical cycle of calcium
Calcium is a fundamental element for life, since it forms the structure and metabolism of the organism. It transports cell membranes, fulfilling a fundamental role within the body. In those same cells, calcium channels are present so that the mineral is stored inside.
On the other hand, calcium is essential for the health and nutrition human and animal. It is an essential component for the preparation of dairy food production. It is also used for medicinal purposes for the treatment of chronic diseases, such as osteoporosis.
Calcium cycle in the environment or ecosystems
The calcium biogeochemical cycle It has a direct influence on all ecosystems. Being a vital part of the biosphere, it is found both in the oceans and in the soils. In this way, living organisms can benefit from its properties.
In the ocean
Although the highest concentration of calcium is in the earth’s crust, good amounts of it are also found in the hydrosphere. Generally, the most common variations are calcium chloride Y calcium carbonate. They reach stability at depths less than 4,500 meters.
On the other hand, when water circulates in places rich in magnesium and calcium, it dissolves salts of these components. This gives way to hard water, also known as limescale.
On the floor
Calcium is part of different rocks, among which limestone, dolomites, marl and marble stand out. In calcareous rocks, water erosion gives way to underground cavern systems. As a consequence, stalagmites and stalactites are also formed due to calcium carbonate depositions.
Similarly, the calcium oxides in the lithosphere they directly influence the regulation of the ph. For this reason, it is used in agriculture to regulate acidity levels in soils.
The carbon cycle in humans
As we already mentioned, the biogeochemical carbon cycle plays a vital role in the creation of bones and soft tissues in the body. However, humans also use it for industrial purposes. It is a main mineral for the production of raw material.
Normally, limestone is used as a construction element, as in the fertilizer preparation. Also, it is practical as a deoxidizer in metallurgical industry.
Impacts and consequences
East biogeochemical cycle it is essential for life on earth, just like the seabed. It is a mineral necessary for the formation of the internal structure of organisms. Unfortunately, the exploitation of natural resources by human beings causes damage to the environment.
For example, the production of fertilizers and the industrial use of calcium are gradually further deteriorating the ozone layer.
Summary
The calcium cycle It is one of the most relevant processes on our planet. Thanks to it, our bone structure and soft tissues are formed. It is a cycle that begins at the seabed, where geological movements expel it towards the surface.
In the lithosphere it is found in the form of food deposits and rocks, which are then subjected to decomposition. Plant roots absorb calcium to be consumed by the food chain. Upon death, the calcium returns to the soil and the cycle begins again.
In short, all living organisms, like our ecosystems, benefit from calcium.