Carbon Cycle

• Carbon

  Present in the atmosphere as carbon dioxide, used by plants in photosynthesis, transferred along food chains, can form fossil fuels and sedimentary rocks
• Carbon cycle


  Carbon constantly recycled by photosynthesis and respiration, carbon dioxide levels fluctuate but mean level does not change in a sealed ecosphere
• Decomposition


  Returns minerals to the environment for other organisms to use, factors affecting speed include temperature, moisture, and microorganisms
• What affects the rate of decomposition?

  Temperature, moisture, oxygen, and the presence of decomposers.