What is mineralization in nutrient cycling?

Mineralization in nutrient cycling refers specifically to the process where organic nutrients, such as those found in dead organic matter, are decomposed by microorganisms and transformed into inorganic forms. These inorganic forms, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, become available for plant uptake, making it a crucial step in the nutrient cycling process. This conversion is essential for maintaining soil fertility and supporting plant growth.

In contrast, the other options describe different concepts. The first option focuses on the process of turning inorganic nutrients into organic forms, which is known as assimilation, not mineralization. Human alteration of nutrient cycles mentioned in the second option pertains to anthropogenic factors affecting the environment, rather than the biochemical processes involved in nutrient cycling. Lastly, absorption of nutrients by aquatic plants, covered in the fourth option, describes a physiological process relevant to plant nutrition but does not define mineralization itself. Therefore, option C accurately captures the essence of mineralization by highlighting its role in converting organic matter into inorganic nutrients that are vital for plant health.