Carbon Cycle

carbon cycle

The continuous movement of carbon atoms through Earth’s systems.

cellular respiration

Living things release energy by converting glucose and oxygen into carbon dioxide and water

photosynthesis

Plants and algae use the sun's energy to convert water and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen

glucose

A carbon based sugar that is an important source of energy. C₆H₁₂O₆

mitochondria

The organelle where cellular respiration occurs

Chloroplast

The plant organelle where photosynthesis occurs

carbon dioxide

A greenhouse gas found in the Earth’s atmosphere; CO₂

fossil fuel

Coal, oil, and natural gas (carbon based fuels) that are ancient remains of plants and animals.

combustion

Burning of fuels to extract energy; produces carbon dioxide

climate change

a long-term shift in Earth's average weather patterns over decades or longer

greenhouse effect

a process that occurs when gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat