Science Module: The Sulfur Cycle
I. Introduction
The Earth's natural processes depend on the cycling of essential elements, and one of these
is sulfur. Though not as well-known as the carbon or nitrogen cycles, the sulfur cycle plays a
crucial role in maintaining the health of the environment and living organisms. Sulfur is an
important component of amino acids and proteins, which are vital for life. This module will
help you understand how sulfur moves through the Earth’s systems and how human
activities can influence this cycle.
II. Learning Objectives
• Define the sulfur cycle and explain its importance.
• Identify the main reservoirs and forms of sulfur in the environment.
• Describe the natural processes that move sulfur through the atmosphere, lithosphere,
hydrosphere, and biosphere.
• Analyze the role of human activities in altering the sulfur cycle.
• Appreciate the ecological and health impacts of sulfur-based compounds.
III. Key Concepts and Terms
Sulfur (S) – a chemical element essential to life.
Sulfates (SO₄²⁻) – a common form of sulfur found in soil and water.
Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) – a toxic gas produced during decomposition.
Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) – a gas released by volcanoes and burning fossil fuels.
Acid rain – precipitation that contains sulfuric acid.
Assimilation – the process by which plants absorb sulfates from the soil.
Decomposition – the breakdown of organic matter, releasing sulfur.
IV. The Sulfur Cycle Explained
1. Sulfur in Nature
Sulfur is found in:
- Rocks and soil (as minerals like pyrite and gypsum)
- Oceans (as dissolved sulfates)
- The atmosphere (as sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide)
- Living organisms (in proteins and amino acids)
2. Natural Processes in the Cycle
a. Weathering of Rocks
Sulfur is released from rocks through weathering, which breaks down sulfide minerals and
releases sulfates into the soil and water.
b. Volcanic Activity
Volcanoes emit sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) into the atmosphere, where
they contribute to cloud formation and acid rain.
c. Atmospheric Conversion
Sulfur gases react with oxygen and water vapor in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid
(H₂SO₄). This returns to the Earth’s surface via acid precipitation.
d. Plant and Animal Uptake
Plants absorb sulfates from the soil and use them to build proteins. Animals then obtain
sulfur by eating plants.
e. Decomposition
When plants and animals die, decomposers like bacteria break down organic material,
releasing sulfur back into the soil as hydrogen sulfide or sulfates.
f. Bacterial Processes
Certain bacteria in low-oxygen environments convert sulfates into hydrogen sulfide through
anaerobic respiration (sulfate reduction), while others convert H₂S back into elemental
sulfur or sulfate.
V. Human Impact on the Sulfur Cycle
1. Burning Fossil Fuels
Combustion of coal and oil releases large quantities of sulfur dioxide, contributing to air
pollution and acid rain, which damages ecosystems and man-made structures.
2. Industrial Emissions
Factories, especially those involved in metal smelting, release sulfur compounds into the air,
disrupting the natural balance.
3. Agricultural Practices
Use of fertilizers and pesticides containing sulfur adds extra sulfur to soils, which can affect
microbial communities and soil chemistry.
VI. Importance of the Sulfur Cycle
• Maintains soil fertility by providing essential nutrients.
• Regulates atmospheric processes.
• Supports aquatic life by influencing water chemistry.
• Vital for the structure of proteins and enzymes in organisms.
VII. Activities and Questions
Activity 1: Diagram Analysis
Instructions: Label the parts of the sulfur cycle diagram (provided separately or drawn by
students), identifying where sulfur is in the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and
biosphere.
Activity 2: Real-World Connection
Research a real-world example of how sulfur pollution has affected an ecosystem (e.g., acid
rain in Scandinavian forests). Present findings in a short essay or infographic.
Comprehension Questions
1. What are the major natural sources of sulfur?
2. How does sulfur enter the food chain?
3. What happens to sulfur when organisms die?
4. How do humans contribute to changes in the sulfur cycle?
5. What are the environmental effects of excess sulfur dioxide?
VIII. Summary
The sulfur cycle is a natural process that moves sulfur through the Earth's atmosphere,
lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Sulfur is essential to life, and its cycle helps
regulate ecosystem function and biological productivity. While natural processes like
volcanoes and decomposition play key roles, human activities such as fossil fuel burning
and industrial emissions have significantly altered the balance of this cycle. Understanding
the sulfur cycle helps us appreciate the interconnectedness of Earth's systems and the
importance of maintaining ecological balance.
IX. Assessment (Optional)
Multiple Choice:
1. What form of sulfur do plants primarily absorb from the soil?
a) Hydrogen sulfide
b) Sulfate
c) Sulfur dioxide
d) Sulfuric acid
→ Answer: b) Sulfate
2. Which process releases sulfur dioxide naturally?
a) Farming
b) Photosynthesis
c) Volcanic eruption
d) Evaporation
→ Answer: c) Volcanic eruption
