B4

Question 1

Describe how carbon can be cycled in an ecosystem between living and non living components.

(6 marks)

Answer 1

• Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is taken in by plants through photosynthesis
• The plants convert the carbon dioxide into glucose
• The glucose can then be used by the plant to create biomass
• if the plan is eaten the carbon in the plant’s biomass can be transferred to a consumer.
• plants and animals respire which releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
• when a living organism dies , it is broken down by decompose microorganisms
  Decomposers carry out respiration
  This release co2 again
  Combustion of fossil fuels also releases CO2