The carbon system

• What is the process called that describes how carbon flows through ecosystems?

  The carbon cycle
• Why is carbon important for living things?

  It is a key material they are made from
• What does it mean that there is a fixed amount of carbon in the world?

  Carbon must be constantly recycled
• What do plants take in from the air during photosynthesis?

  CO₂
• What do plants use the carbon in CO₂ for?

  To make carbon compounds like carbohydrates
• How do animals obtain carbon compounds from plants?

  By eating the plants
• What do both plant and animal respiration release back into the air?

  CO₂
• What happens to plants and animals when they die?

  They turn into dead products
• What do rotting plant and animal products release back into the air?

  CO₂
• What are decomposers in the carbon cycle?

  Microorganisms like bacteria and fungi
• What do decomposers do to animal waste and dead organisms?

  They break them down
• What do decomposers release back into the air during respiration?

  CO₂
• How does decomposition help maintain habitats?

  It returns nutrients to the soil
• What happens to waste material like dead leaves during decomposition?

  It doesn't just sit
• What are the features of the ecosystem in the carbon cycle diagram?

  • Horse
  • Tree
  • Microorganisms in the soil
• Where can you find a reminder about biotic and abiotic factors?

  On page 42
• What is the role of microorganisms in the carbon cycle?

  They decompose organic matter and recycle nutrients
• What are some forms of carbon compounds made by plants?

  Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins
• What role do fossil fuels play in the carbon cycle?

  They release CO₂ when burned