Biogeochemical Cycles: The Carbon Cycle

Vocabulary flashcards detailing key terminology, processes, and reservoirs involved in the carbon cycle.

Carbon

The second most abundant element in living organisms, which can cycle rapidly or over a long period of time through geological processes.

Heterotrophs and autotrophs

Organisms that largely influence rapid carbon exchange within the carbon cycle.

Biosphere (carbon reservoir)

A carbon reservoir where carbon is found in plant matter as glucose ($\text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6$), absorbed by plants as $\text{CO}_2$, and released when animals breathe out $\text{CO}_2$.

Hydrosphere (carbon reservoir)

A carbon sink where $\text{CO}_2$ naturally dissolves in water and is incorporated into shells and corals as calcium carbonate ($\text{CaCO}_3$).

Geosphere (carbon reservoir)

A carbon sink where carbon is trapped in rocks, present in soil following decomposition, and found as fossil fuels formed under prolonged periods of time and pressure.

Calcium carbonate ($\text{CaCO}_3$)

The carbon compound found in shells and corals within the hydrosphere.

Fossil fuels

Carbon-rich deposits located in the geosphere formed after long periods of time and intense pressure.

Photosynthesis

The process occurring in plants that drives a rapid exchange of gases and removes carbon dioxide gas ($\text{CO}_2$) from the atmosphere.