The carbon cycle in a rainforest is the process through which carbon is exchanged between the atmosphere, plants, animals, and the soil. Here’s a simple breakdown:
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Photosynthesis: Plants in the rainforest absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and use sunlight to convert it into sugars (food) and oxygen. This process helps store carbon in the plants.
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Respiration: Plants and animals release CO2 back into the atmosphere through respiration. When they breathe, they use oxygen and release CO2.
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Decomposition: When plants and animals die, decomposers like fungi and bacteria break down their bodies. This process releases carbon back into the soil and atmosphere as CO2.
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Soil Storage: Some of the carbon from dead plants and animals gets stored in the soil organic matter. This carbon can stay in the soil for a long time.
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Burning: Human activities, such as deforestation or forest fires, can release stored carbon rapidly, contributing to increased CO2 levels in the atmosphere.
In summary, the carbon cycle in rainforests is a continuous movement of carbon through living organisms, the air, and the soil, which helps maintain the balance of carbon in the environment.