Carbon Cycle Flashcards
What is the carbon cycle?
The carbon cycle is the series of processes by which carbon compounds are interconverted in the environment.
True or False: The carbon cycle is only a fast process.
False
What are the two main types of carbon cycles?
Fast cycle and slow cycle.
Fill in the blank: The fast carbon cycle primarily involves ________ and ________.
photosynthesis; respiration
Which process removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere in the fast cycle?
Photosynthesis
What is the main source of carbon in the slow carbon cycle?
Weathering of rocks and volcanic activity.
Multiple Choice: Which process is NOT part of the fast carbon cycle? A) Photosynthesis B) Combustion C) Sedimentation
C) Sedimentation
True or False: The slow carbon cycle can take thousands to millions of years.
True
What role do oceans play in the carbon cycle?
Oceans absorb and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Fill in the blank: ________ is a process that releases carbon back into the atmosphere.
Respiration
What is the primary human activity that impacts the carbon cycle?
Burning fossil fuels.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a sink for carbon? A) Trees B) Factories C) Cars
A) Trees
What is the significance of the carbon cycle to the Earth’s climate?
It regulates the levels of carbon dioxide, which affects global temperatures.
True or False: Carbon can be stored in soil for long periods of time.
True
What is a carbon reservoir?
A natural system that stores carbon, such as forests, soil, or oceans.
Fill in the blank: The process of ________ involves the conversion of organic matter into fossil fuels over millions of years.
diagenesis
Which organism is primarily responsible for carbon fixation in the fast cycle?
Plants
What happens during the process of combustion in relation to the carbon cycle?
It releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following contributes to the slow carbon cycle? A) Ocean currents B) Photosynthesis C) Weathering of rocks
C) Weathering of rocks
True or False: Carbon is only found in living organisms.
False
What is the role of decomposers in the carbon cycle?
They break down dead organic matter, returning carbon to the soil and atmosphere.
Fill in the blank: The fast carbon cycle is primarily driven by ________ and ________.
biological processes; atmospheric interactions
What is the impact of deforestation on the carbon cycle?
It reduces the number of trees that can absorb carbon dioxide.
Multiple Choice: What is a potential consequence of increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere? A) Global cooling B) Climate change C) Decreased plant growth
B) Climate change
