Unit 4: Carbon Cycle Flashcard

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 role do plants play in the carbon cycle?

Back

Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, converting it into organic matter and releasing oxygen.

Front

What is respiration in the context of the carbon cycle?

Back

Respiration is the process by which living organisms convert organic matter into energy, releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of carbon dioxide and water, releasing oxygen as a byproduct.

Front

What is combustion?

Back

Combustion is a chemical reaction that occurs when a substance reacts with oxygen, producing heat and light, and releasing carbon dioxide and other gases.

Front

How do oceans contribute to the carbon cycle?

Back

Oceans absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to regulate the amount of carbon dioxide in the air and playing a crucial role in the carbon cycle.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the warming of the Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor in the atmosphere.

Front

What is the significance of fossil fuels in the carbon cycle?

Back

Fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, store carbon that was once part of living organisms. When burned, they release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, contributing to the carbon cycle.

Front

What is the difference between carbon sinks and carbon sources?

Back

Carbon sinks are natural systems that absorb more carbon than they release (e.g., forests, oceans), while carbon sources release more carbon than they absorb (e.g., burning fossil fuels).

Front

What is the impact of deforestation on the carbon cycle?

Back

Deforestation reduces the number of trees available to absorb carbon dioxide, increasing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and contributing to climate change.