How does carbon primarily enter the geosphere?

Answer 1

Carbon primarily enters the geosphere through the process of weathering and erosion of rocks and minerals. During weathering, carbon dioxide from the atmosphere dissolves in rainwater, forming carbonic acid. This acid reacts with minerals in rocks, breaking them down and releasing carbon ions into the soil and water. These carbon ions can then be taken up by plants through photosynthesis, eventually becoming part of organic matter in the soil. Over time, some of this organic carbon can be buried and incorporated into sedimentary rocks through processes like lithification. This carbon becomes a part of the geosphere and can be stored for millions of years.