3.6 Carbon Cycle CFU

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

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The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged among the biosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere of the Earth. It involves various processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and combustion.

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What role do plants play in the carbon cycle?

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Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, converting it into organic matter, which is then used by other organisms in the food chain.

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What is photosynthesis?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll, converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

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What is cellular respiration?

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Cellular respiration is the process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy, carbon dioxide, and water. It releases carbon back into the atmosphere.

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What is combustion?

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Combustion is a chemical reaction that occurs when a substance reacts rapidly with oxygen, producing heat and light. In the carbon cycle, combustion of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

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What is fossilization?

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Fossilization is the process by which organic material is transformed into fossil fuels (like coal, oil, and natural gas) over millions of years under heat and pressure.

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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 composed of carbon and used as energy sources.

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How does carbon move from the atmosphere to the ocean?

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Carbon dioxide from the atmosphere can dissolve in ocean water, where it can be used by marine plants for photosynthesis or stored in ocean sediments.

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What is the significance of decomposition in the carbon cycle?

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

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What is the role of the ocean in the carbon cycle?

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The ocean acts as a major carbon sink, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in water and marine organisms.