biogeochemical cycle

Movement of elements or molecules among organisms and nonliving compartments of the atmosphere,
lithosphere, and hydrosphere.
Note 1:    Examples of biogeochemical cycles are the carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur cycles. These are defined as the global flow of C, N, P, and S atoms, respectively, from plants through animals to the atmosphere, soil, water, and back to plants.
Note 2:    The  water  cycle  refers  to  the  global  flow  of  water  from  surface  and  ground  water sources to soil, plants, animals, and the atmosphere, and back to soil and surface water.