Carbon Cycle

Front

What is the Carbon Cycle?

Back

The Carbon Cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged among the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms. It involves processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and combustion.

Front

What are fossil fuels?

Back

Fossil fuels are natural substances formed from the remains of ancient organisms, primarily plants and animals, that have been buried and subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years. Examples include coal, oil, and natural gas.

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen using sunlight.

Front

What is respiration in the context of the carbon cycle?

Back

Respiration is the process by which living organisms convert glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.

Front

What is decomposition?

Back

Decomposition is the process by which dead organic matter is broken down by microorganisms, returning nutrients to the soil and releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

Front

What role do plants play in the carbon cycle?

Back

Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, helping to reduce atmospheric carbon levels and providing oxygen as a byproduct.

Front

What is combustion?

Back

Combustion is a chemical reaction that occurs when a substance reacts with oxygen, releasing energy in the form of heat and light, and producing carbon dioxide and water.

Front

How do fossil fuels contribute to the carbon cycle?

Back

When fossil fuels are burned for energy, they release stored carbon back into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the warming of Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, in the atmosphere.

Front

What is the significance of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

Back

Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that plays a crucial role in regulating Earth's temperature. Increased levels can lead to global warming.