Carbon Cycle

Question 1

How does climate change affect the carbon cycle?

Answer 1

As CO2 levels rise, enhanced greenhouse effect increases. Potential for accelerated warming at poles which will melt permafrost and release more CO2. Also warmer oceans will hold less CO2

Question 2

How do the seasons affect the carbon cycle?

Answer 2

As plants grow, especially during spring, atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide decrease. Plants remove CO2 from the atmosphere during photosynthesis. Warmer oceans store less carbon.

Question 3

How does the atmosphere distribute carbon?

Answer 3

There are higher levels of CO2 between 30•N and 40•N as this area has large areas of industry. Factors such as jetstreams and Hadley cells circulate CO2 to other regions.

Question 4

How does the ocean distribute carbon?

Answer 4

As ocean currents move away from the equator, they cool and can absorb more CO2. As the water cools it becomes denser and sinks, taking CO2 with it (The Great Ocean Conveyor). Marine plants use CO2 for photosynthesis.