Biogeochemical Cycles and Carbon Cycle

Flashcards for reviewing key vocabulary and concepts related to the carbon cycle and its impact.

Biogeochemical Cycles

Movement of chemical elements through biotic and abiotic components of the environment.

Photosynthesis

The process where atmospheric CO2 is converted into biomass.

Respiration

The process where CO2 is released back into the atmosphere.

Decomposition

The process of releasing carbon from organic matter.

Combustion

The process of burning fossil fuels, which adds CO2 to the atmosphere.

Sequestration

The process of storing carbon in oceans, soil, forests, and rocks.

Carbon Sequestration

Capturing and storing atmospheric CO2 in solid or liquid form.

Carbon Sink

Absorbs more carbon than it releases.

Carbon Source

Releases more carbon than it absorbs.

Ocean Acidification

Occurs when CO2 dissolves in seawater, forming carbonic acid, which lowers pH and harms calcium carbonate users like corals.

Deforestation

Removes carbon sinks and releases carbon via decay and burning, contributing to climate change.

BECCS (Bioenergy with CCS)

Carbon negative process where biomass absorbs CO2; considered more sustainable than CCS.

CCS (Carbon Capture and Storage)

Uses fossil fuels to capture CO2, thus not carbon neutral.