Carbon Cycle

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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 role do plants play in the carbon cycle?

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Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis to produce food (glucose) and oxygen.

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What are fossil fuels?

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Fossil fuels are natural substances formed from the remains of ancient organisms that have been buried and subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years. They include coal, oil, and natural gas.

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How does respiration contribute to the carbon cycle?

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Respiration is the process by which organisms convert glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

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What is photosynthesis?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

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What are greenhouse gases?

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Greenhouse gases are gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, contributing to the greenhouse effect.

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What is the greenhouse effect?

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The greenhouse effect is the warming of the Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

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What happens to carbon in dead organisms?

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When organisms die, they can decompose, releasing carbon back into the soil and atmosphere, or they can be buried and eventually form fossil fuels.

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What is the significance of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

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Carbon dioxide is a key greenhouse gas that helps regulate Earth's temperature. However, excessive levels can lead to global warming.

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How do human activities affect the carbon cycle?

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Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, increase carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, disrupting the natural carbon cycle.