Features Of The Carbon Cycle In Alaskan Tundra

Question 1

How much carbon does the permafrost contain and how does it compare to above ground biomass?

Answer 1

1600 GT

The amount of carbon below ground is 5 times grater than above ground biomass

Question 2

NPP

Answer 2

Less than 200 grams/m^2/yr.

Question 3

What does the growing season do for the soil and the atmosphere?

Answer 3

Inputs carbon rich litter into the soil.

The activity of organisms increases which puts more CO2 into the air

Question 4

Are greenhouse gases released in winter?

Answer 4

Yes. CO2 and CH4 is released through pockets of unfrozen soil and water

Question 5

Is the permafrost a carbon sink or carbon source?

Answer 5

Both due to global warming