carbon sinks Flashcards
1
Q
definition of a carbon sink
A
a carbon sink is an area that stores carbon from the atmosphere for a long period, and stores more carbon than it releases
2
Q
how does the ocean act as a carbon sink
A
it is the largest carbon sink, about 1/3 of carbon dioxide released by human activities are absorbed by oceans. carbon dioxide dissolves in the ocean’s water to be used by aquatic plants. another portion is buried in the seabed in the form of fossil fuels
3
Q
how does the forest act as a carbon sink
A
in the atmosphere, carbon dioxide is absorbed by plants. a large amount of carbon compounds is stored in trees. when they die, their remains are buried deep and form coal. forests absorb 20% of the carbon dixoide released from the burning of fossil fuels
