Understanding the Carbon Cycle

What is the carbon cycle?

• The carbon cycle is a method of carbon storage in fossil fuels.

• The carbon cycle refers to the process of carbon being created in the atmosphere.

• The carbon cycle is the process of carbon being released by volcanic activity.

• The carbon cycle is the continuous process of carbon exchange among the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms.

Name one process that releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

• Photosynthesis

• Extraction of fossil fuels

• Re-forestation

• Cellular respiration

How do plants contribute to the carbon cycle?

• Plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and release through respiration and decomposition.

• Plants do not interact with the carbon cycle.

• Plants release carbon dioxide during photosynthesis.

• Plants absorb carbon dioxide during the night.

What role do oceans play in the carbon cycle?

• Oceans release more carbon dioxide than they absorb.

• Oceans act as a carbon sink, absorbing carbon dioxide, supporting processes that sequester (store) carbon, and releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

• Oceans have no impact on the carbon cycle.

• Oceans only store carbon in the form of ice.

How does carbon get stored in the ground?

• Carbon gets stored in the ground through the decomposition of organic matter, mineralization, and the formation of fossil fuels.

• Carbon is buried in the ground by soil erosion.

• Carbon is absorbed by rocks during volcanic eruptions.

• Carbon is stored in the ground through photosynthesis.

What human activities increase carbon dioxide levels?

• Burning fossil fuels, deforestation, industrial processes, and agricultural practices.

• Planting more trees

• Using renewable energy sources

• Recycling materials

Why is the carbon cycle important for life on Earth?

• It prevents volcanic eruptions.

• It increases the amount of nitrogen in the atmosphere.

• It helps in the formation of ozone layer.

• The carbon cycle is important for life on Earth because it supports photosynthesis, regulates atmospheric carbon dioxide, and maintains climate stability.

What is the greenhouse effect?

• The greenhouse effect is the increase in ocean levels due to melting ice caps.

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

• The greenhouse effect is the cooling of Earth's surface due to the reflection of sunlight by clouds.

• The greenhouse effect is the process of plants absorbing carbon dioxide during photosynthesis.