Describe the cycling of carbon in the carbon cycle as it passes through the living. and nonliving components of the ecosystem. Draw a diagram of the carbon cycle.

Answer 1

The cycling of carbon in the carbon cycle is a continuous process that involves the exchange of carbon between living and nonliving components of the ecosystem. Carbon is a key element in the biosphere and is essential for life on Earth.

Carbon enters the atmosphere from natural sources such as respiration, volcanic eruptions, and the burning of fossil fuels. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the main form of carbon in the atmosphere. Plants use CO2 from the atmosphere to produce energy through photosynthesis. This process is known as carbon fixation. The carbon is then stored in the plant as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Animals consume plants and other animals, and the carbon is passed through the food chain. When animals respire, they release CO2 back into the atmosphere.

Dead organic matter, such as leaves and animal remains, is broken down by decomposers such as bacteria and fungi. This process releases CO2 back into the atmosphere.

Carbon can also be stored in the soil in the form of organic matter. This organic matter is broken down by soil organisms and released back into the atmosphere as CO2.

Finally, carbon can be stored in the ocean in the form of dissolved CO2. This CO2 is taken up by phytoplankton and other marine organisms and released back into the atmosphere as CO2.

The carbon cycle is a continuous process that involves the exchange of carbon between living and nonliving components of the ecosystem. The diagram below illustrates the cycling of carbon in the carbon cycle.