Which processes significantly influence nutrient cycling?

Nutrient cycling is influenced by a variety of processes that can be broadly categorized into biological and nonbiological types. Biological processes include the activities of microorganisms, plants, and animals that contribute to the decomposition of organic materials, the incorporation of nutrients into food webs, and the transformation of nutrients between different forms. For example, the decomposition of organic matter by bacteria and fungi releases essential nutrients back into the soil, making them available for plant uptake.

Nonbiological processes encompass geological and physical phenomena such as weathering of rocks, sediment transport, and nutrient leaching due to water movement. Weathering breaks down rocks and releases minerals into the soil, thereby contributing to the nutrient pool, while sedimentation can influence the distribution of nutrients in aquatic environments.

A complete understanding of nutrient cycling requires recognizing the interplay between these biological and nonbiological processes. Both are essential for maintaining ecosystem health and facilitating nutrient availability. This dual influence of biological organisms interacting with nonbiological factors is what makes the identified answer the most comprehensive and accurate choice.