Carbon Cycle Flashcards
(6 cards)
What is the carbon cycle?
A natural process that describes how carbon moves through Earth’s ecosystem via processes like photosynthesis, respiration, feeding, decomposition, and combustion.
The carbon cycle is crucial for maintaining the balance of carbon in the atmosphere and supporting life on Earth.
What happens during photosynthesis in the carbon cycle?
Plants absorb CO₂ and use sunlight to make glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆), releasing oxygen and reducing CO₂ in the atmosphere.
Photosynthesis is essential for converting solar energy into chemical energy.
How does feeding contribute to the carbon cycle?
Animals consume plants or other animals, incorporating carbon into their bodies and transferring it through the food chain.
This process is vital for energy transfer and nutrient cycling in ecosystems.
What role does respiration play in the carbon cycle?
Plants and animals break down glucose to release energy, producing CO₂, which returns to the atmosphere.
Respiration is a key process for energy production in living organisms.
What is decomposition in the carbon cycle?
Decomposers break down dead organisms, releasing CO₂ and methane (CH₄) into the soil and atmosphere, recycling nutrients.
Decomposition is essential for nutrient recycling and maintaining soil health.
How does combustion affect the carbon cycle?
Burning fossil fuels and biomass releases CO₂, contributing to the greenhouse effect and climate change.
Combustion significantly increases atmospheric CO₂ levels, impacting global temperatures.
