Unit 4: Carbon Cycle Flashcard

Front

What process puts carbon from life in a forest back into the atmosphere?

Back

Respiration is the process that releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere as living organisms break down glucose for energy.

Front

Which process is NOT a way the biosphere moves carbon through the carbon cycle?

Back

Storing carbon in rocks from fossils is not a way the biosphere moves carbon; it is a geological process.

Front

In which sphere are humans adding more carbon than naturally occurs?

Back

Humans are upsetting the natural carbon cycle primarily in the Atmosphere by burning fossil fuels and other activities.

Front

What data is needed to conclude if carbon dioxide is the main cause of the greenhouse effect?

Back

The amount of each gas in the atmosphere is needed to make a more accurate conclusion about the greenhouse effect.

Front

Which sphere contains over 99% of carbon in the form of carbonates?

Back

The Lithosphere contains over 99% of carbon in the form of carbonates, primarily in rocks and sediments.

Front

Define the carbon cycle.

Back

The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged between the Earth's atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms.

Front

What role do plants play in the carbon cycle?

Back

Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, converting it into organic matter.

Front

What is combustion and how does it relate to the carbon cycle?

Back

Combustion is the process of burning fossil fuels, which releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.

Front

Explain the term 'greenhouse effect'.

Back

The greenhouse effect is the warming of the Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide.

Front

What is the significance of carbonates in the lithosphere?

Back

Carbonates in the lithosphere store a large amount of carbon, playing a crucial role in the long-term carbon cycle.