The Carbon Cycle

Carbon Cycle

The process by which carbon moves through the Earth's spheres: atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and lithosphere.

Atmosphere

The layer of gases surrounding the Earth, primarily consisting of nitrogen and oxygen.

Hydrosphere

All the water on Earth, including oceans, lakes, rivers, and groundwater.

Biosphere

The global sum of all ecosystems, representing the zone of life on Earth.

Lithosphere

The rigid outer part of the Earth, consisting of the crust and upper mantle.

Photosynthesis

The process by which green plants use sunlight to synthesize foods from carbon dioxide and water.

Respiration (Animals)

The exchange of gases through breathing in which animals take in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide.

Respiration (Plants)

The process by which plants break down sugars using oxygen, releasing carbon dioxide.

Combustion

The act or process of burning, which releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Evaporation

The process by which liquid water changes into vapor, contributing to the water cycle.

Diffusion

The process of gas molecules spreading from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration.

Decomposition

The natural process of breaking down organic matter into simpler substances, returning carbon to the soil.

Volcanism

The process by which volcanic activity releases gases, including carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere.

Carbon Dioxide

A colorless, odorless gas produced by respiration, combustion, and decay, and absorbed by plants during photosynthesis.

Carbon Pathway

The route that carbon atoms take through the environment, encompassing processes such as photosynthesis and respiration.