The Carbonate Pump (Fast)

Question 1

Where is it based?

Answer 1

The ocean

Question 2

Step 1

Answer 2

Phytoplankton living on ocean surface waters absorb carbon during photosynthesis, sequestering it in their bodies.

Question 3

Step 2

Answer 3

They convert CO2 into organic carbon, using it for growth and energy.

Question 4

Step 3

Answer 4

Zooplankton and other marine organisms consume phytoplankton, incorporating organic carbon into their bodies.

Question 5

Step 4

Answer 5

When these organisms die, their remains sinks into the deep ocean

Question 5

Step 5b

Answer 5

In some regions, deep ocean currents bring nutrient rich waters back to the surface in upwelling

Question 6

Step 5a

Answer 6

Fraction of organic carbon that sinks reaches the bottom of the ocean and joins the slow cycle process.

Question 7

Step 6

Answer 7

This recycled carbon re-enters the carbon cycle when it’s used by phytoplankton and gets released back into the atmosphere as CO2