Unit 3 Interactions in Marine Ecosystem - carbon cycle (1)

Carbon Cycle

The series of processes by which carbon compounds are interconverted in the environment, involving photosynthesis, respiration, and decomposition.

Biotic and Abiotic

Biotic refers to living components of an ecosystem, while abiotic refers to non-living components.

Photosynthesis

The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods from carbon dioxide and water.

Respiration

The process by which cells break down glucose and other organic compounds to release energy, producing carbon dioxide as a byproduct.

Decomposers

Organisms that break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the environment.

Marine Snow

Organic debris that falls from the upper layers of the ocean to the sea floor.

Sedimentary Rocks

Rocks formed by the accumulation and cementation of mineral and organic particles, often containing carbon.

Acidification

The process by which water becomes more acidic, often as a result of increased carbon dioxide levels.

Carbon Sink

Natural systems that absorb and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Fossil Fuels

Natural substances formed from the remains of dead organisms, including coal, oil, and natural gas, that release carbon dioxide when burned.

Iron Fertilization

The addition of iron to ocean waters to stimulate phytoplankton growth and enhance carbon dioxide absorption.

Trophic Levels

The levels of a food chain or food web, representing the flow of energy and nutrients through an ecosystem.