Carbon Cycle Flashcard

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

Back

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

Front

What role do producers play in the carbon cycle?

Back

Producers, such as plants, take in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis and convert it into glucose, making carbon available for consumers.

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

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.

Front

What is cellular respiration?

Back

Cellular respiration is the process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy, carbon dioxide, and water, releasing energy for cellular activities.

Front

What are decomposers?

Back

Decomposers are organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, that break down dead organic matter, returning carbon to the soil and atmosphere.

Front

How do animals contribute to the carbon cycle?

Back

Animals contribute to the carbon cycle by consuming plants and other animals, and through respiration, they release carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

Front

What is the significance of chloroplasts in the carbon cycle?

Back

Chloroplasts are the sites of photosynthesis in plant cells, where they produce glucose and oxygen from carbon dioxide and sunlight.

Front

What is the significance of mitochondria in the carbon cycle?

Back

Mitochondria are the sites of cellular respiration in cells, where they convert glucose and oxygen into energy, carbon dioxide, and water.

Front

What happens to carbon during decomposition?

Back

During decomposition, carbon from dead organisms is released back into the soil and atmosphere, enriching the environment and continuing the carbon cycle.

Front

What is the role of light energy in photosynthesis?

Back

Light energy from the Sun is absorbed by chlorophyll in plants and is transformed into chemical energy during photosynthesis.