Fast Carbon Cycle

Question 1

Overview

Answer 1

The components of the fast carbon cycle include photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition and combustion. Other natural phenomena such as volcanic eruptions and wildfires can also have short-term effects on the amount of atmospheric CO2.

Question 2

Photosynthesis

Answer 2

Terrestrial plants and marine plants turn carbon into organic matter via photosynthesis

Process whereby plants use light and energy from the sun to produce carbohydrates in form of glucose

Glucose stores energy

CO2 + H2O + sun -> glucose + O2

Question 3

Respiration

Answer 3

Plants use some of the stored glucose as an energy source to carry out life functions by respiration

Oxygen from atmosphere is combined with carbohydrates to liberate stored energy

O2 + Glucose-> energy + H2O + CO2

Question 4

Decomposition

Answer 4

When living organisms die, they are ​broken down by decomposers (such as bacteria and detritivores​) which ​respire​, returning CO2 into the atmosphere.

Some ​organic matter​ is also ​returned to the soil ​where it is stored adding carbon matter to the soil.

There are many kinds of decomposer. Each helps recycle food in its own way.
1. Fungi release chemicals to break down dead plants or animals into simple substances. They absorb some of these substances for growth, but others enter the soil.

Question 5

Combustion

Answer 5

When fossil fuels and organic matter such as trees are burnt, they ​emit CO2 into the atmosphere​, that was previously locked inside of them. This may occur when ​fossil fuels are burnt to produce energy​, or if wildfires occur.

Organic material is reacted in the presence of oxygen to give off products of CO2 and water