recycaling Flashcards
what does the carbon cycle do
allows carbon to be cycles around an ecosystem
What is the carbon cycle?
The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon moves between the atmosphere, living organisms, oceans, and the Earth’s surface.
Name three ways carbon is released into the atmosphere.
Respiration
Combustion
Decomposition
How do plants take in carbon dioxide?
Plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. They use it to make glucose, which is then used for growth and energy.
What role do animals play in the carbon cycle?
Animals consume plants (or other animals) and get carbon from their food. When they respire, they release CO₂ back into the atmosphere.
How does deforestation affect the carbon cycle?
Less photosynthesis happens, meaning less CO₂ is removed from the atmosphere.
Burning trees releases stored carbon as CO₂, contributing to climate change.
How does carbon get stored in the Earth for millions of years?
Some dead organisms and plants do not decay fully and get buried. Over millions of years, they form fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), storing carbon underground.
What happens when fossil fuels are burned?
Fossil fuel combustion releases carbon dioxide (CO₂) into the atmosphere, increasing greenhouse gases and contributing to global warming.
What role do decomposers play in the carbon cycle?
Decomposers (bacteria and fungi) break down dead plants and animals, releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere through respiration.
How do oceans contribute to the carbon cycle?
Oceans absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere. Some of it is used by marine organisms, and some gets trapped in deep-sea sediments over time.
