Carbon Cycle

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

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

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What is photosynthesis?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, using carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen.

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What are the products of photosynthesis?

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The products of photosynthesis are oxygen and glucose.

Front

What is cellular respiration?

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Cellular respiration is the process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy, producing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.

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How do animals contribute to the carbon cycle?

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Animals contribute to the carbon cycle through respiration, where they inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide.

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What role do decomposers play in the carbon cycle?

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Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning carbon to the soil and atmosphere, which is essential for nutrient cycling.

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What is combustion?

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Combustion is the process of burning fossil fuels or biomass, which releases carbon dioxide 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, including coal, oil, and natural gas, that store carbon.

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What is the greatest contributor to atmospheric carbon?

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Transportation is one of the greatest contributors to atmospheric carbon due to the burning of fossil fuels.

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What happens to carbon during the carbon cycle?

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Carbon changes forms during the carbon cycle, moving between the atmosphere, living organisms, and the earth, but the total amount of carbon remains constant.