The Carbon-Oxygen Cycle

Question 1

Volcanic Eruptions

Answer 1

Release large amounts or carbon dioxide into the atmosphere

Question 2

Carbon Sequestration

Answer 2

Sequestration is the removal and storage of atmospheric carbon by the ocean and trees

Question 3

Cellular Respiration

Answer 3

Animals eat the plants and take in O2 to power cellular respiration, and then release CO2 into the atmosphere

Question 4

Photosynthesis

Answer 4

Plant cells absorb solar energy, carbon dioxide and water and convert them into oxygen, water and glucose (energy)

Question 5

Decomposition

Answer 5

When organisms die, their organic matter becomes available for decomposition by decomposers. They break down complex organic molecules (like glucose) into simpler compounds (such as CO2)

Question 6

Fossilization and unavailable carbon

Answer 6

Removes carbon from the cycle as it is transformed into fossil fuels and
once fossil fuels are formed, they remain underground until extracted

Question 7

Combustion of fossil fuels

Answer 7

When burned, fossil fuels release large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere

Question 8

Limestone and weathering

Answer 8

Calcium carbonate reacts with acids found in rainwater and soil and
Produces CO2 which is released into the atmosphere

Question 9

Deforestation and fires

Answer 9

When trees and vegetation are cut down, burned or left to decay, the carbon stored in their tissues and cells is released into the atmosphere as CO2