Carbon Cycle and Life Processes

Why is carbon considered crucial for all life on Earth?

• It is the most abundant element in the atmosphere.

• It is needed to make all organic molecules required by living things.

• It helps regulate Earth's magnetic field.

• It is a primary component of water.

Which process removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and uses it to create sugars like glucose?

• Respiration

• Decomposition

• Photosynthesis

• Combustion

What is the primary purpose of cell respiration in living organisms?

• To produce oxygen for the atmosphere.

• To break down carbon compounds to produce ATP energy.

• To absorb carbon dioxide from the environment.

• To form fossil fuels over long periods.

How do animals obtain carbon for their bodies?

• By directly absorbing carbon dioxide from the air.

• By eating other organisms that contain carbon compounds.

• By converting sunlight into carbon.

• By extracting carbon from rocks.

What role do decomposers like fungi and bacteria play in the carbon cycle?

• They perform photosynthesis to create new carbon compounds.

• They store carbon in their bodies for millions of years.

• They break down dead organisms and waste, returning carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.

• They convert carbon dioxide into oxygen.

Under what conditions do dead organisms and waste transform into fossil fuels?

• Exposure to extreme cold and sunlight.

• Rapid decomposition by specialized bacteria.

• Burial deep in the Earth under intense heat and pressure for many years.

• Immediate combustion in the presence of oxygen.

What is the process called when humans burn fossil fuels to power technologies, releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere?

• Photosynthesis

• Respiration

• Decomposition

• Combustion

How does the burning of fossil fuels impact Earth's climate?

• It significantly reduces the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

• It has no effect on atmospheric composition.

• It adds extra carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, to the atmosphere, which can impact climate.

• It converts carbon dioxide into harmless water vapor.