B1.6 - Decay And Carbon Cycle Flashcards
Describe the stages of the carbon cycle.
Plants and algae carry out photosynthesis, removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing the carbon as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
When plants respire, the carbon can be returned as carbon dioxide.
Animals get their carbon by eating plants or other animals. Some of the carbon is released when animals respire.
Animals produce waste products, which are fed on by microorganisms which respire, releasing carbon dioxide. When animals die, the remains are fed on by microorganisms, etc.
Combustion is wood and fossil fuels release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Where do living things get their materials from?
Living things are made up from materials that they take from the world around them.
What elements do plants take in and what products do they make with these?
Plants take elements like carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen and turn these elements into complex compounds, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
How are the elements plants take in returned to the atmosphere?
These elements are returned to the environment when remains and waste products are broken down by microorganisms.
What are some common microorganisms?
Bacteria, fungi, and detritus feeders
What conditions do microorganisms work best in?
Warm
Moist
Aerobic (plenty of oxygen)
Why do we use compost bins?
They have kitchen waste and the like which can create fertiliser, which contains nutrients for plants.
What features make compost bins suited to decay?
Warmth - extra decomposers can be added to help increase the rate of decay and to increase heat as respiration produces heat.
Oxygen - mesh sides/holes in the side let oxygen circulate.
Water added and spread evenly can provide moisture.
Describe a stable community.
In a stable community, the materials removed from the soil are balanced by the materials put back in. There is a constant cycle.
What is the carbon cycle?
The continuous cycle of how carbon is constantly being recycled.
