Carbon Cycle and Climate Change

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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, converting it into glucose and oxygen, thus removing carbon from 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, primarily consisting of coal, oil, and natural gas. They release carbon dioxide when burned.

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What is photosynthesis?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce 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, releasing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.

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How does combustion affect the Carbon Cycle?

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Combustion releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels, which increases greenhouse gas concentrations and contributes to climate change.

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What is the greenhouse effect?

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The greenhouse effect is the warming of Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor in the atmosphere.

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What is the significance of carbon sinks?

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Carbon sinks are natural systems, such as forests and oceans, that absorb more carbon dioxide than they release, helping to mitigate climate change.

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What is the impact of deforestation on the Carbon Cycle?

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Deforestation reduces the number of trees available to absorb carbon dioxide, leading to increased atmospheric carbon levels and contributing to climate change.

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What is primary production?

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Primary production is the process by which autotrophs, like plants, produce organic compounds from carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food web.