The Carbon Cycle

• Carbon Cycle

  The constant cycling of carbon in the environment
• Carbon Cycle Steps

  1. CO2 is removed by photosynthesis

  2. Carbon is used to make glucose

  3. Carbon moves through the food chain

  4. Carbon is returned to the atmosphere by respiration

  5. Detritus feeders and microorganisms break down remains

  6. Combustion releases CO2 back into the air
• Decay

  • Materials are broken down by microorganisms
  • Happens faster in warm, moist, aerobic conditions
  • Puts nutrients back into the soil
• Materials taken from the environment

  • Carbon
  • Oxygen
  • Hydrogen
  • Nitrogen
• Products made from plants and animals

  • Carbohydrates
  • Fats
  • Proteins