Ecology Reading 3: Carbon Cycle

Photosynthesis

The way plants use sunlight to make food from water and carbon dioxide.

Cellular Respiration

The processes that happen in cells to turn food into energy and release waste.

Decomposition

When dead plants and animals break down into simpler parts, often by bacteria.

Combustion

Burning anything (fossil fuels, trees, etc.) releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Carbon Dioxide

A gas that makes up <3% of the air we breathe; a greenhouse gas that causes the earth to get warmer.

Biomass

The total amount of living things in an area: plant and animal material.

Hydrocarbons

Compounds made only of hydrogen and carbon, often found in fuels.

Biosphere

All the areas on Earth where things live.

Atmosphere

The layer of gases that surrounds the Earth.

Hydrosphere

All the water bodies on Earth.

Geosphere

The solid land part of the Earth where carbon is stored.

Carbon Cycle

The journey of carbon atoms through the Earth's different parts.

Carbon Neutral

Achieving a balance between the carbon emitted and the carbon removed.

Carbon Sink

A natural area that takes in more carbon than it releases.

Carbon Emission

A process that releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Organic compounds

Molecules like glucose that are essential for life and are found in all living organisms. Photosynthesis converts atmospheric carbon dioxide into an organic compound (glucose)