Carbon Cycle Concepts and Processes

The video explains the carbon cycle, focusing on the biosphere's role in carbon exchange. It covers how autotrophs and heterotrophs contribute to the cycle through photosynthesis and respiration. Decomposers also play a part by releasing carbon dioxide. The impact of human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, is highlighted as a significant change since the Industrial Revolution.

What is the biosphere composed of?

• All living organisms on Earth

• Only microorganisms

• Only plants

• Only animals

How do autotrophs obtain carbon atoms?

• Through cellular respiration

• By eating other organisms

• Via photosynthesis

• By decomposing organic matter

What is biomass a measurement of?

• The number of species in an ecosystem

• The weight and carbon content of living organisms

• The energy produced by plants

• The amount of water in an ecosystem

What process do both plants and animals perform to release carbon dioxide?

• Fermentation

• Decomposition

• Cellular respiration

• Photosynthesis

Which process is responsible for plants taking in carbon dioxide?

• Respiration

• Photosynthesis

• Decomposition

• Fermentation

What is a waste product of cellular respiration?

• Carbon dioxide

• Water

• Oxygen

• Glucose

What role do decomposers play in the carbon cycle?

• They absorb carbon dioxide

• They convert carbon dioxide into fossil fuels

• They produce oxygen

• They release carbon dioxide through respiration

How are carbon atoms exchanged between the atmosphere and the biosphere?

• Very slowly

• Not at all

• Very quickly

• Only through human intervention

What happens to carbon in dead organisms over a long period?

• It becomes part of the ground rocks or fossil fuels

• It is absorbed by living plants

• It disappears completely

• It becomes part of the atmosphere

What significant change did the Industrial Revolution bring to the carbon cycle?

• Increased photosynthesis

• Decreased carbon dioxide levels

• Burning of fossil fuels releasing more carbon dioxide

• Increased oxygen levels