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 role do plants play in the carbon cycle?

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Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis and convert it into organic matter, storing carbon in their tissues.

Front

What is a carbon sink?

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A carbon sink is a natural or artificial reservoir that absorbs more carbon than it releases, helping to reduce the amount of CO₂ in the atmosphere.

Front

What is the largest carbon sink on Earth?

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The largest carbon sink on Earth is the ocean, which absorbs a significant amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Front

How do marine organisms contribute to the carbon cycle?

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Marine organisms, such as phytoplankton, absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and contribute to the carbon cycle by forming organic matter.

Front

What happens to carbon in the ocean?

Back

In the ocean, carbon can be dissolved in water, used by marine organisms, or stored in sediments on the ocean floor.

Front

What is the effect of increased carbon dioxide in the ocean?

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Increased carbon dioxide in the ocean leads to ocean acidification, which lowers the pH of seawater and can harm marine life.

Front

How does respiration affect the carbon cycle?

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Respiration is the process by which living organisms convert organic matter into energy, releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in the carbon cycle?

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Decomposers break down dead organic matter, releasing carbon back into the soil and atmosphere, thus recycling nutrients.

Front

What is ocean acidification?

Back

Ocean acidification is the decrease in pH of ocean water due to the absorption of excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.