How do fossil fuels play a role in the carbon cycle?

Fossil fuels require a lot of carbon to burn, which releases carbon into the atmosphere.

Fossil fuels require a lot of carbon to burn, which takes carbon out of the atmosphere.

Fossil fuels are rich in carbon, and burning them returns carbon to the soil.

Fossil fuels are rich in carbon, and burning them releases carbon into the atmosphere.

7 answers

Fossil fuels are rich in carbon, and burning them releases carbon into the atmosphere.
How is the majority of carbon transferred from plants and animals to the soil?

Carbon dioxide from plant and animal respiration dissolves into the soil.

The decay of dead organisms releases some carbon atoms from their bodies into the soil.

The decay of dead organisms releases carbon dioxide from their bodies into the soil.

Carbon atoms from plant and animal waste dissolve into the soil.
The decay of dead organisms releases some carbon atoms from their bodies into the soil.
Is all of Earth's carbon dioxide supply constantly being used by organisms?

Yes, and it briefly passes through the atmosphere as it cycles between organisms.

No, some is stored in Earth's carbon sinks, such as the oceans.

No, some is stored in Earth's only carbon sink, the atmosphere.

Yes, and it is used up as soon as it is formed.
No, some is stored in Earth's carbon sinks, such as the oceans.
Which of these is the largest living carbon sink?

forests

insects

ocean

soil
The largest living carbon sink is forests.