The Carbon Cycle Process

Carbon is a vital element for most living organisms and a key component of the atmosphere. It cycles through the Earth, ocean, living factors, abiotic factors, and air, residing in five major locations: the atmosphere, terrestrial biosphere, Earth's interior, ocean, and due to human influence.

Atmospheric carbon exists as carbon dioxide and methane. It can be absorbed by autotrophs (like plants and plankton) for photosynthesis or by bodies of water, where it reacts to form carbonic acid.

The Earth's land, or terrestrial biosphere, involves carbon exchange between plants and animals. Plants absorb carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, while animals release it through respiration. Heterotrophs consume carbon-containing plants, and animals release methane during digestion. Decomposers in the soil also release carbon into the atmosphere and soil.

Carbon is stored in the Earth's lithosphere as fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) and deposits like limestone. Volcanoes can release this stored carbon during eruptions.

The ocean is a major reservoir of carbon, absorbing large quantities of carbon dioxide. Plankton in the ocean also absorb carbon dioxide for photosynthesis.

Human activities significantly impact the carbon cycle. Burning fossil fuels and producing clinker for cement release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Deforestation also contributes to increased atmospheric carbon.

This video provided an overview of the journey carbon takes through the carbon cycle.