Carbon cycle

• What is the main topic discussed in the study material?

  The Carbon Cycle
• How does carbon flow through the Earth's system?

  Carbon is recycled and used by organisms, then returned to the atmosphere.
• What are the components of an ecosystem?

  • All organisms living in an area
  • Non-living conditions (e.g., soil quality, availability of water, temperature)
• What are the two main components through which materials are recycled in an ecosystem?

  Biotic and abiotic components
• What elements do living organisms take from the environment?

  Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, etc.
• What do plants do with the elements they take from the environment?

  They form complex compounds like carbohydrates and proteins.
• How are elements returned to the environment?

  Through waste products or when organisms die.
• What role do decomposers play in the recycling of materials?

  They break down dead organisms and waste products, returning elements to the soil.
• What is the significance of carbon in living organisms?

  Carbon is an important element in the materials that living things are made from.
• Why is the amount of carbon in the world fixed?

  Because carbon is constantly recycled in the ecosystem.
• What happens to carbon compounds when animals eat plants?

  Carbon compounds are passed along the food chain to animals.
• What is released back into the atmosphere during respiration?

  Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
• What happens to plants and animals when they die?

  They decompose, returning nutrients to the soil.
• How do microorganisms contribute to the carbon cycle?

  They break down dead organisms and release CO₂ back into the air.
• What is the effect of burning plant and animal products on carbon levels?

  It releases CO₂ back into the atmosphere.
• What is the role of decomposition in maintaining habitats?

  It retains nutrients in the soil and prevents waste accumulation.
• What are carbon atoms found in?

  Plants, animals, petrol, and other organic materials.
• Why can chopping down trees increase CO₂ concentration in the air?

  It reduces the number of plants that can absorb CO₂ during photosynthesis.
• What are the key processes in the carbon cycle?

  1. Photosynthesis: Plants absorb CO₂ to make carbohydrates.
  2. Respiration: Both plants and animals release CO₂ back into the atmosphere.
  3. Decomposition: Microorganisms break down dead organisms, releasing CO₂.
  4. Combustion: Burning of fossil fuels and wood releases CO₂.
  5. Nutrient recycling: Maintains habitats and soil fertility.
• What is the primary source of energy for the carbon cycle?

  The Sun
• What role does water play in the carbon cycle?

  Water is essential for photosynthesis and nutrient transport.
• How do nutrients affect the ecosystem?

  Nutrients are essential for the growth and survival of organisms.
• What is the role of bacteria in the ecosystem?

  Bacteria decompose organic matter and recycle nutrients.
• What happens to nutrients in the soil after decomposition?

  Nutrients are returned to the soil for use by new plants.
• What is the significance of the carbon cycle for life on Earth?

  The carbon cycle is crucial for maintaining the balance of carbon in the ecosystem.