Carbon Cycle

Front

What is the Carbon Cycle?

Back

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.

Front

What process occurs when coal (fossil fuel) is used for energy?

Back

Combustion is the process that occurs when coal is burned for energy, releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Front

What are fossil fuels?

Back

Fossil fuels are natural substances formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals, buried and subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years. Examples include coal, oil, and natural gas.

Front

Which gas do plants release that humans depend on for survival?

Back

Plants release oxygen during photosynthesis, which is essential for human survival.

Front

What is decomposition?

Back

Decomposition is the process by which dead organic matter is broken down by microorganisms, returning nutrients to the soil and releasing carbon back into the atmosphere.

Front

How do plants contribute to the carbon cycle?

Back

Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis and convert it into glucose, releasing oxygen as a byproduct.

Front

What role do animals play in the carbon cycle?

Back

Animals consume plants and other animals, and through respiration, they release carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

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

Front

What happens to carbon in dead organisms?

Back

When organisms die, their carbon is released back into the soil through decomposition, or it can be buried and transformed into fossil fuels over time.

Front

What is 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.