Q2 — Describe (2 marks)

Question: Using Figure 1 (a Gersmehl nutrient-cycle diagram for the tropical rainforest), describe two features of nutrient stores and flows shown. (2 marks)

Mark scheme (AO3, 2 × 1 mark):

• 1 mark per valid feature, e.g.:
  • 'Biomass is the largest store, shown by the largest circle.'
  • 'The litter store is small because decomposition is rapid in hot, humid conditions.'
  • 'Large arrows from precipitation indicate high nutrient input from rainfall.'
  • 'Leaching arrow from soil to runoff is large, showing rapid nutrient loss.'
• Maximum 2 marks. Generic statements without reference to the diagram = 0.