AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The plants are then eaten by animals as food. In the animal body, plant protein is converted into animal proteins and other organic compounds which make up their body. Some animals also eat other animals as food. They get their nitrogen by eating other animals.

Detailed explanation-2: -Animals obtain these compounds when they eat the plants. When plants and animals die or when animals excrete wastes, the nitrogen compounds in the organic matter re-enter the soil where they are broken down by microorganisms, known as decomposers.

Detailed explanation-3: -Animals get the nitrogen they need by eating plants or other animals that contain nitrogen. When organisms die, their bodies decompose bringing the nitrogen into soil on land or into ocean water. Bacteria alter the nitrogen into a form that plants are able to use.

Detailed explanation-4: -Consumers (herbivores and predators) get nitrogen compounds from the plants and animals they eat.

Detailed explanation-5: -Animals absorb phosphates by eating plants or plant-eating animals. Phosphorus cycles through plants and animals much faster than it does through rocks and sediments.