Carbon Cycle and Climate Change Flashcard

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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 such as photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and combustion.

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What is methane and why is it significant in climate change?

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Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that is significantly more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide. It is primarily produced by agricultural activities, especially livestock.

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What are greenhouse gases?

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Greenhouse gases are gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat. The main greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and water vapor.

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How does deforestation contribute to climate change?

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Deforestation contributes to climate change by reducing the number of trees that can absorb carbon dioxide, thus increasing the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere.

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What is the role of soil in the carbon cycle?

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Soil acts as a carbon sink, storing carbon in organic matter and preventing its release into the atmosphere.

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What is the primary source of increased greenhouse gas emissions?

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The primary source of increased greenhouse gas emissions is human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes.

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What is climate change?

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Climate change refers to long-term changes in temperature, precipitation, and other atmospheric conditions on Earth, primarily driven by human activities.

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What is the significance of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it into organic matter, thus playing a crucial role in the carbon cycle.

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What are the effects of climate change on weather patterns?

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Climate change can lead to more extreme weather events, such as increased frequency and intensity of storms, droughts, and heatwaves.

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What is the relationship between carbon dioxide and global warming?

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Increased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere enhance the greenhouse effect, leading to global warming and rising temperatures.