Carbon Cycling

Question 1

Carbon cycle

Answer 1

the carbon cycle is a biochemical cycle whereby carbon is exchanged between the different spheres of the earth

Question 2

different varieties of carbon exchange

Answer 2

• atmospheric gases
• oceanic carbonates
• organic materials
• non living remains

Question 3

Autotrophs and photosynthesis

Answer 3

Autotrophs such as all plants and algae convert inorganic carbon dioxide into organic compounds via photosynthesis

Question 4

carbonic acid

Answer 4

Carbon dioxide dissolves in water and some of it will remain as a dissolved gas, however the remainder will combine with water to form carbonic acid.
carbonic acid will then dissociate to form hydrogen carbonate ions

Question 5

Methanogens

Answer 5

Methanogens are archaean microorganisms that produce methane as a metabolic by product in anaerobic conditions

Question 6

Anaerobic conditions where methanogens may be found

Answer 6

• wetlands
• marine sediments
• digestive tract of ruminant animals

Question 7

Partial decomposition

Answer 7

In many soils, saprotrophic bacteria and fungi will decompose dead organisms and return nutrients to the soil for cycling

Question 8

Coal formation

Answer 8

Since the organic matter is not fully decomposed in waterlogged soils, carbon-rich molecules remain in the soil and form peat. Removal of moisture and gas from the peat concentrates the remaining carbon, forming coal

Question 9

Combustion reaction

Answer 9

when organic compounds rich in hydrocarbons are heated in the presence os oxygen
-This reaction is exergonic (produces energy) and releases carbon dioxide and water as by-products
-The carbon dioxide is typically released into the atmosphere, increasing the concentration of the gas in the air

Question 10

Combustion sources

Answer 10

1) Fossil fuels
2) Biomass

Question 11

Carbon fluxes

Answer 11

carbon fluxes describe the rate of exchange of carbon between the various carbon sinks / reservoirs