Carbon Cycle

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

Back

The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon moves through the Earth's ecosystems, including the atmosphere, land, and oceans, involving processes like photosynthesis, respiration, and decomposition.

Front

What are the two main processes that assist carbon through ecosystems?

Back

Photosynthesis and respiration.

Front

How do plants contribute to the Law of Conservation of Matter?

Back

Plants absorb carbon dioxide, create sugar through photosynthesis, and release oxygen, thus maintaining the balance of matter.

Front

What happens to carbon in the food chain?

Back

Carbon flows through the food chain as animals consume plants and other animals, and it is returned to the environment through decomposition.

Front

What is the impact of increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere since the Industrial Revolution?

Back

The amount of carbon dioxide in Earth's atmosphere has increased by about 39%, contributing to climate change as it acts as a greenhouse gas.

Front

What percentage of extra carbon dioxide has been absorbed by plants and oceans since the Industrial Revolution?

Back

About 55%.

Front

What happens to the remaining carbon dioxide that is not absorbed by plants and oceans?

Back

It stays in Earth's atmosphere, acting as a greenhouse gas.

Front

What is the primary source of carbon in a tree?

Back

The carbon dioxide molecules that the tree absorbs from the atmosphere during photosynthesis.

Front

Define photosynthesis.

Back

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

Front

Define respiration in the context of the carbon cycle.

Back

Respiration is the process by which living organisms convert glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.