Topic 1 - Global Systems - Carbon Cycle

Question 1

Carbon cycle

Answer 1

The cycle that transfers carbon through the atmosphere, lithosphere, biosphere and hydrosphere.

Question 2

Volcanic Eruptions

Answer 2

Release large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Question 3

Carbon Sequestration

Answer 3

Plants take in carbon dioxide to use in photosynthesis. Marine organisms and ocean take in carbon through photosynthesis.

Question 4

Cellular Respiration

Answer 4

Animals eat in the plants and take in O2and then release CO2 into the atmosphere. Works with photosynthesis to act as carbon transfer.

Question 5

Photosynthesis

Answer 5

Plants absorb solar energy, carbon dioxide, and water which converts that into energy.

Question 6

Decomposition

Answer 6

When organisms die their organic matter becomes available for decomposition which break down molecules to simpler compounds.

Question 7

Fossilisation and Unavailable Carbon

Answer 7

Burial and transformation of organic matter into fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas.
Removes carbon from the cycle.

Question 8

Combustion of Fossil Fuels

Answer 8

When burned fossil fuels release large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This is not part of the natural cycle (due to human impact)

Question 9

Limestone and Weathering

Answer 9

Limestone is composed of calcium carbonate. Calcium reacts with acids from rainwater and soil which will produce CO2.

Question 10

Deforestation and Fires

Answer 10

When trees and vegetation is cut down, the carbon stored in their tissues is released into the atmosphere. Which also results in loss of carbon sinks.