The Carbon Cycle Flashcards
organic molecules
Besides water, the most common molecules in living things, or molecules that contain carbon.
carbon cycle
the exchange of carbon between the environment and living things
photosynthesis
the basis of the carbon cycle, most animals get the carbon and energy they need by eating plants (or by eating animals that eat plants).
sugar molecules
returns carbon back to the environment when they are broken down to release energy
respiration
carbon dioxide and water are released as byproducts by this
photosynthesis ( oxygen cycle )
most available oxygen comes from plants and phytoplankton on the ocean’s surface
Where is oxygen made?
in the atmosphere, when sunlight breaks down water
Where is most oxygen on earth stored?
stored in minerals in earth’s crust and is unavailable for use.
biotic
plants, animals, ( including plants and animals that have died )
abiotic
carbon dioxide, oxygen, and nitrogen
photosynthesis ( flow of energy )
abiotic factors to biotic factors
cellular respiration ( flow of energy )
abiotic factors to biotic factors
decomposition
biotic factors to abiotic
combustion
biotic factors to abiotic factors
