cycles within ecosystems (carbon cycle)

Question 1

name the 4 stages of the carbon cycle

Answer 1

1. atmosphere
2. photosynthesis
3. respiration
4. decomposition/combustion

Question 2

describe the atmosphere stage of the carbon cycle

Answer 2

1. carbon enters the atmosphere as carbon dioxide from respiration and combustion of fossil fuels.

Question 3

describe the photosynthesis stage of the carbon cycle

Answer 3

2. carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is absorbed by producers to make carbon compounds such as glucose by photosynthesis

Question 4

describe the respiration stage of the carbon cycle

Answer 4

3. animals feed on plants, passing carbon compounds along the food chain. most of the carbon consumed is exhaled as carbon dioxide from aerobic respiration to release energy

Question 5

describe the decomposition/combustion stage of the carbon cycle

Answer 5

4. decomposers break down dead organisms or faeces and release the carbon as carbon dioxide by respiration
   OR
5. plant and animal material that is not decomposed is available as fossil fuels for combustion, which releases carbon