Carbon Cycle
Definition
The carbon cycle is the movement of carbon atoms between living organisms (plants and animals), the atmosphere (as carbon dioxide), bodies of water (as dissolved carbon dioxide), and fossil fuels (as stored carbon).
Analogy
Think of the carbon cycle like a game of tag. Carbon atoms are constantly being passed around between different players - plants take in carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, animals eat plants transferring those carbons into their bodies. When an animal dies or decays, its stored carbon is released back into the environment for other organisms to use.
Related terms
Photosynthesis: The process by which green plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose (sugar) and oxygen.
Respiration: The process by which living organisms release energy from glucose molecules while producing carbon dioxide as a waste product.
Decomposition: The breakdown of dead organic matter by bacteria and fungi that releases stored carbon back into the environment.
"Carbon Cycle" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Additional resources (2)
Practice Questions (4)
- What the consequence of over-extraction and overuse of fossil fuels on the carbon cycle?
- How does the carbon cycle continue to occur after plants die?
- What is an effect of urbanization on the carbon cycle?
- How does urbanization contribute to the carbon cycle?
Resources
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