The Carbon Cycle | AQA A-Level Environmental Science Revision | Primrose Kitten

Biogeochemical cycles

Processes allowing the cycling of essential nutrients through biotic and abiotic components of the Earth

Dynamic equilibrium

State of balance where two or more processes cancel each other out, resulting in little overall change

Carbon cycle

The movement of carbon between the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere

Reservoirs

Locations where carbon can be found, including the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere

Photosynthesis

Process where plants absorb carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen

Carbon sequestration

The capture and storage of carbon, such as when plants store glucose in their biomass through photosynthesis

Aerobic respiration

Respiration with oxygen, releasing more energy and carbon dioxide

Anaerobic respiration

Respiration without oxygen, releasing less energy and methane

Carbonic acid

Formed when carbon dioxide dissolves in water, contributing to ocean acidity

Food chains and webs

Transfer of carbon through the consumption and decomposition of organisms in ecosystems

Fossilisation

Formation of long-term carbon stores like fossil fuels and carbonate rocks

Deforestation

The action of clearing a wide area of trees

Soil Fertility

The ability of soil to sustain plant growth by providing essential nutrients e.g. nitrates

Carbon Dioxide Dissolving

The process of carbon dioxide being absorbed by the ocean

Carbon Dioxide Exsolving

The process of carbon dioxide being released from the ocean

Combustion

The process of burning a fuel source to release energy

Carbon Sinks/Stores

Natural or artificial reservoirs that accumulate and store carbon compounds

Renewable Energy Sources

Energy sources that are naturally replenished, such as solar and wind power

Circular Economy

An economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual reuse of resources

Afforestation

The establishment of a forest or trees in an area where there was no forest previously

Reforestation

The replanting of trees in a deforested area

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)

A manmade process that captures and stores carbon dioxide underground

Which reservoir does CCS happen in?

The lithosphere

Which reservoir does carbon sequestration happen in?

The biosphere