EQ1: How does the carbon cycle operate to maintain planetary health?

Biogeochemical Carbon Cycle

A cycle consisting of carbon stores of varying sizes (terrestrial, oceans, atmosphere) with annual fluxes measured in Pg/Gt.

Carbon Stores

Components of the carbon cycle including terrestrial stores, oceanic stores, and atmospheric stores, each having different sizes and flux rates.

Geological Carbon

Most of Earth's carbon is geological, formed through sedimentary carbonate rocks like limestone and biologically derived carbon in shale and coal.

Volcanic Out-Gassing

A geological process that releases carbon into the atmosphere through volcanic activity at ocean ridges and subduction zones.

Phytoplankton

Microscopic organisms that sequester atmospheric carbon through photosynthesis in ocean waters.

Carbonate Pump

A process where carbonate shells/tests sink into the deep ocean through the action of phytoplankton and thermohaline circulation.

Terrestrial Primary Producers

Plants that sequester carbon during photosynthesis, returning some carbon to the atmosphere during respiration.

Dead Organic Matter

Biological carbon stored in soils, which can be returned to the atmosphere via decomposition over time.

Natural Greenhouse Effect

Influenced by atmospheric carbon concentration (CO2 and methane), affecting temperature and precipitation distribution on Earth.

Photosynthesis Role

Ocean and terrestrial photosynthesis regulate atmospheric composition by removing CO2 and producing oxygen.

Soil Health and Carbon

Stored carbon in soils influences soil health, which is crucial for ecosystem productivity.

Fossil Fuel Combustion

The process that alters carbon cycle balance, impacting climate, ecosystems, and hydrological cycles.