The Carbon Cycle

Question 1

The carbon cycle shows how carbon is recycled.

Explain the processes that occur during the carbon cycle.

Answer 1

• Respiration from plants and animals releases carbon dioxide into the air
• Green plants use carbon from carbon dioxide during photosynthesis to make food
• Eating passes carbon compounds in plant along to animals in food chain
• Plants and animals die and are decomposed, or are turned into useful products - when they decompose, they’re broken down by microorganisms and carbon dioxide is released as the material is broken down
• Some useful plant and animal products are burned in combustion, releasing carbon dioxide