2.3 Carbon Cycle and Climate Change Review

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What is the carbon cycle?

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The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged between the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms. It involves processes like photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and combustion.

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What are the main sources of carbon emissions?

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The main sources of carbon emissions include burning fossil fuels (like coal, oil, and natural gas), deforestation, and certain agricultural practices.

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How does deforestation contribute to climate change?

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Deforestation reduces the number of trees that can absorb carbon dioxide, leading to higher levels of CO2 in the atmosphere, which contributes to global warming.

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What role do oceans play in the carbon cycle?

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Oceans absorb a significant amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, acting as a carbon sink. They also release CO2 back into the atmosphere.

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What is the greenhouse effect?

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The greenhouse effect is the warming of Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor in the atmosphere.

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What is the relationship between carbon dioxide levels and global temperatures?

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Higher levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere are closely related to increases in global temperatures, as CO2 traps heat.

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What is photosynthesis?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, effectively removing CO2 from the atmosphere.

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What is respiration in the context of the carbon cycle?

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Respiration is the process by which living organisms convert glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

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What are fossil fuels?

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Fossil fuels are natural substances formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals, primarily consisting of carbon and used as energy sources (e.g., coal, oil, natural gas).

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What is climate change?

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Climate change refers to significant changes in global temperatures and weather patterns over time, largely driven by human activities that increase greenhouse gas emissions.