carbon cycle Flashcards
What is the carbon cycle?
The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged among the atmosphere, land, ocean, and living organisms.
True or False: Carbon is found only in the atmosphere.
False. Carbon is found in the atmosphere, oceans, soil, and in living organisms.
What are the main processes involved in the carbon cycle?
The main processes are photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, combustion, and carbon sequestration.
Fill in the blank: Plants absorb carbon dioxide during ________.
photosynthesis
What role do animals play in the carbon cycle?
Animals contribute to the carbon cycle by respiring carbon dioxide and decomposing organic matter.
Multiple Choice: Which process removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere?
Photosynthesis
What is the significance of decomposition in the carbon cycle?
Decomposition breaks down dead organic matter, returning carbon to the soil and atmosphere.
True or False: Combustion of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
True
What is carbon sequestration?
Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Fill in the blank: The main greenhouse gas produced by human activities is ________.
carbon dioxide
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a natural reservoir of carbon?
Oceans
What is the impact of deforestation on the carbon cycle?
Deforestation increases carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere by reducing the number of trees that can absorb it.
True or False: The carbon cycle is a closed system.
True
What happens to carbon during respiration?
During respiration, organisms convert glucose and oxygen into carbon dioxide and energy.
Fill in the blank: The carbon cycle is essential for ________ and ________.
life; climate regulation
Multiple Choice: Which human activity significantly alters the carbon cycle?
Burning fossil fuels
What is the role of phytoplankton in the carbon cycle?
Phytoplankton absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, playing a crucial role in the oceanic carbon cycle.
True or False: Carbon can exist in solid, liquid, and gas states.
True
What are carbon sinks?
Carbon sinks are natural systems that absorb more carbon than they release, such as forests and oceans.
Fill in the blank: The burning of ________ releases carbon into the atmosphere.
fossil fuels
Multiple Choice: Which process is primarily responsible for releasing carbon back into the atmosphere from soil?
Decomposition
What is the effect of increased carbon dioxide levels on climate?
Increased carbon dioxide levels contribute to global warming and climate change.
True or False: Carbon is a necessary component of all living organisms.
True
What role do oceans play in the carbon cycle?
Oceans act as a major carbon sink, absorbing and storing large amounts of carbon dioxide.
Fill in the blank: The process of ________ converts carbon dioxide into organic compounds in plants.
photosynthesis
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a component of the carbon cycle?
Magnetism
