The Carbon Cycle Flashcards
Where is carbon locked up?
Coal, oil, gas.
How is photosynthesis involved in the carbon cycle?
Green plants and algae remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere for photosynthesis. They also use the carbon to make carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
How is carbon retuned to the atmosphere by animals?
When they respire carbon dioxide is produced as a waste product.
How are decomposers involved?
When plants, algae and animals die their bodies are broken down by decomposers. They release carbon dioxide when they respire.
When we burn fossils fuels what is the process called?
Combustion.
What does combustion have to do with the carbon cycle?
It releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.
What is the equation for photosynthesis?
Carbon dioxide + water -> glucose + oxygen.
What is the equation for respiration?
Oxygen + glucose -> water + carbon dioxide
What is the equation for combustion?
Fossil fuel + oxygen -> carbon dioxide + water
Why do scientists fear that the carbon cycle might not cope?
We burn a lot of fossil fuels pouring an increasing amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
What will happen if the levels of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere keep increasing?
It may lead to global warming.
