the carbon cycle

Question 1

why is carbon important?

Answer 1

carbon is an essential element that is apart of all organic compounds in cells.

• it is needed to synthesise nucleic acids, carbohydrates, lipids, chlorophyll, ATP and enzymes.

Question 2

explain the carbon cycle.

Answer 2

It begins with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

through photosynthesis, carbon dioxide is pulled from the air in order for plants to produce food and energy for growth.

animals eat the plants and then release the carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

when plants and animals die, decomposers break down the remains, respire and release the carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

when plants and animals die, over millions of year the carbon becomes fossil fuels and the can be burnt (combusted) which releases it back into the atmosphere.