How is carbon stored in the biosphere?

Question

in the atmosphere as carbon dioxide

all of these

in the soil after decomposition

underground as fossil fuels and calcium carbonate rock

Answer 1

The correct answer is "all of these."

Carbon is stored in the biosphere in several ways:

1. In the atmosphere as carbon dioxide: Carbon exists in the atmosphere primarily in the form of carbon dioxide (CO2), which is absorbed by plants during photosynthesis.

2. In the soil after decomposition: When plants and animals die, their organic matter decomposes and contributes to soil organic carbon, which is a crucial component of healthy soil.

3. Underground as fossil fuels and calcium carbonate rock: Carbon is also stored underground as fossil fuels (such as coal, oil, and natural gas), formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals, and in the form of calcium carbonate in rocks (limestone), which is formed from the shells and skeletons of marine organisms.

Thus, carbon is stored in various forms across different components of the biosphere, including the atmosphere, soil, and underground reserves.