The Carbon And Water Cycle

Question 1

How does the Carbon Cycle work?

Answer 1

•Carbon dioxide is Removed from the air via photosynthesis by green plants and algae - they use carbon to make cartbohydrates, proteins and fats.They are eaten and the carbon moves up the food chain
•Carbon Dioxide is RETURNED to the air when plants, algae and animals resplre.
Decomposers (a group of microorganisms that break down dead organisms and waste) respire while they return mineral lons to the soil
•Carbon Dioxide is RETURNED to the air when wood and fossil fuels are burnt (called combustion) as they contain carbon from photosynthesis.

Question 2

How does The Water Cycle work?

Answer 2

•The sun’s energy causes water to evaporate from the sea and lakes, forming water vapour.
• Water vapour is also formed as a result of transpiration in plants.
• Water vapour rises and then condenses to form clouds.
• Water is returned to the land by precipitation (rain, snow or hail), and this runs into lakes to provide water for plants and animals.
•This then runs into seas and the cycle begins again.