Carbon Cycle 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 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 carbon dioxide and sunlight into glucose and oxygen. It is a key part of the carbon cycle.

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What is respiration?

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Respiration is the process by which living organisms convert glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts. It plays a crucial role in the carbon cycle.

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What is decomposition?

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Decomposition is the process by which dead organic matter is broken down by microorganisms, returning carbon to the soil and atmosphere, thus completing the carbon cycle.

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What role do producers play in the carbon cycle?

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Producers, such as plants and algae, absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, forming the base of the food web.

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What role do consumers play in the carbon cycle?

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Consumers, such as animals, obtain carbon by eating producers or other consumers, and they release carbon back into the atmosphere through respiration.

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What is the significance of algae in the carbon cycle?

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Algae are significant in the carbon cycle as they absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide from the ocean, contributing to carbon sequestration.

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How does carbon move from the atmosphere to the biosphere?

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Carbon moves from the atmosphere to the biosphere primarily through the process of photosynthesis, where plants absorb carbon dioxide.

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What is the impact of combustion on the carbon cycle?

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Combustion releases stored carbon from fossil fuels into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide, increasing greenhouse gas concentrations.

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What is carbon sequestration?

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Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide to mitigate climate change, often through natural processes like photosynthesis.