By what two processes does carbon go from living things into the carbon pool?

Answer 1

Carbon transitions from living organisms into the carbon pool through two primary processes: decomposition and respiration.

1. Decomposition: When living organisms die, decomposers such as bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms break down their organic matter. This process releases carbon dioxide (CO2) back into the atmosphere as organic carbon compounds are transformed. Additionally, some carbon may enter the soil, contributing to the soil organic carbon pool.

2. Respiration: All living organisms, including plants, animals, and microbes, undergo cellular respiration, a process in which they convert organic molecules (like glucose) into energy. During this process, they exhale carbon dioxide as a byproduct. This CO2 then enters the atmosphere, contributing to the carbon pool.

Through these processes, carbon continually cycles between living organisms and the broader carbon reservoirs in the environment, such as the atmosphere, oceans, and soils.