Changing Carbon Stores In Peatlands Over Time

Question 1

What is peat?

Answer 1

Thick layer of black/dark brown sticky and wet soil material

Question 2

Where are peatlands found in the UK?

Answer 2

• Mainly highland areas

- Poorly drained lowland areas e.g. East Anglia

Question 3

Outline peat formation

Answer 3

1) Glaciers form as snow collects over long periods of time
2) Temps rise, ice melts and retreats. Areas of fresh, fertile land left behind
3) Plant seeds carried by wind and grow in sediment in warmer conditions. Grass grows then trees
4) Climate gets wetter, less suitable for trees, more suitable for bog plants
5) Low O² levels and toughness of bog plants make them difficult to break down. Bog plants remain and accumulate eventually forming peat

Question 4

Who was Pete Marsh

Answer 4

2000 year old well-preserved body found in Cheshire in 1984