Describe the cycling of carbon in the carbon cycle as it passes through the living and non-living components of the ecosystem.(4 points) make it short and simple.

Answer 1

The carbon cycle involves the movement of carbon through both living organisms and non-living components of the ecosystem:

1. Photosynthesis: Plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere and use it to produce glucose during photosynthesis, incorporating carbon into organic molecules.

2. Consumption: Animals eat plants (and other animals), taking in carbon compounds and using them for energy and growth, thus moving carbon through the food chain.

3. Respiration: Both plants and animals release CO₂ back into the atmosphere when they respire, breaking down organic matter for energy.

4. Decomposition: When organisms die, decomposers (like bacteria and fungi) break them down, releasing stored carbon back into the soil and atmosphere as CO₂ or organic matter, completing the cycle.

This continuous cycling maintains the balance of carbon in the ecosystem.