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Lesson_5_The_Carbon_Cycle_Fully_Expanded

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Omar Moataz
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4 views

Lesson_5_The_Carbon_Cycle_Fully_Expanded

Uploaded by

Omar Moataz
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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The Carbon Cycle

The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon moves through the Earth's atmosphere,
oceans, soil, and living organisms. Carbon is a fundamental element of life, forming the
backbone of organic molecules. The cycle begins with photosynthesis, where plants absorb
atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) and convert it into glucose. This glucose is used for
energy and growth, while animals obtain carbon by consuming plants or other animals.
When organisms respire, they release CO2 back into the atmosphere. Decomposers also
play a crucial role, breaking down dead organisms and returning carbon to the soil or
atmosphere. In addition to these natural processes, carbon is stored in fossil fuels like coal,
oil, and natural gas, formed from ancient plant and animal remains. Human activities, such
as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, have significantly altered the carbon cycle,
increasing atmospheric CO2 levels and contributing to global warming. The ocean acts as a
major carbon sink, absorbing large amounts of CO2, but this can lead to ocean acidification,
threatening marine life. Understanding the carbon cycle is essential for addressing climate
change and developing sustainable practices to reduce carbon emissions.

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