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 is photosynthesis?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce glucose (food) and oxygen.

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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 like carbon dioxide, which are released by burning fossil fuels.

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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 and release oxygen, which is essential for animal life.

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What happens to carbon in dead organisms?

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Dead organisms can decompose and release carbon back into the atmosphere or be buried and transformed into fossil fuels over millions of years.

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What are fossil fuels?

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Fossil fuels are natural substances like coal, oil, and natural gas formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals, used as energy sources.

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How do animals contribute to the carbon cycle?

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Animals breathe in oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide, which is then used by plants in photosynthesis.

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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 as a byproduct.

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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 nutrients and carbon to the soil.

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What is the significance of carbon in living organisms?

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Carbon is a fundamental building block of life, forming the backbone of organic molecules like proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.