Carbon Cycle Overview

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to the carbon cycle, including the forms and reservoirs of carbon, and its importance in biological systems.

What is the primary role of carbon in the environment?

Carbon moves from reservoir to reservoir via transformation processes.

What are organic carbon reservoirs?

Organic carbon reservoirs are found in living or once living things, including the cells and tissues of plants and animals as well as decaying organisms in soil.

What are examples of inorganic carbon?

Inorganic carbon includes gases like Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Methane (CH4), fossil fuels, and dissolved CO2 in bodies of water.

Where is carbon found in marine life?

Carbon can be found as calcium carbonate in the shells of shelled organisms like clams, oysters, mussels, starfish, and coral.

What organic molecules is carbon a key component of?

Carbon is a key component of organic molecules such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and DNA.