TOPIC: Carbon cycle

The carbon cycle is a natural and essential process that involves the movement of carbon
through different reservoirs on Earth. Here’s a simplified explanation:

1. Photosynthesis:

- Process: Plants, algae, and some bacteria perform photosynthesis, converting carbon dioxide
(CO2) from the atmosphere into organic compounds like glucose.
- Result: Carbon is incorporated into plant tissues.

2. Respiration:
- Process: Plants, animals, and microorganisms undergo respiration, releasing CO2 back into
the atmosphere as they break down organic compounds to produce energy.
- Result: Carbon is returned to the atmosphere.

3. Decomposition:
- Process: When plants and animals die, microorganisms break down their organic matter
during decomposition.
- Result: Carbon in the form of organic compounds is returned to the soil.

4. Combustion:
- Process: Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), release
large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere.
- Result: Carbon stored in fossil fuels is rapidly returned to the atmosphere.

5. Absorption by Oceans:
- Process: Oceans absorb CO2 from the atmosphere through dissolution at the water’s
surface.
 - Result: Carbon is stored in the ocean as dissolved CO2 and carbonate compounds.

6. Ocean Release:
- Process: Ocean organisms, like plankton, absorb carbon from the water for photosynthesis,
and when they die, their shells sink to the ocean floor.
- Result: Carbon is stored in the ocean sediments.

7. Geological Processes:
- Process: Over long periods, geological processes, like weathering and volcanic activity,
release and absorb carbon.
- Result: Carbon moves between the Earth’s surface and interior, influencing the overall
carbon balance.