APES 1.4

Carbon Cycle

The process through which carbon is exchanged among the atmosphere, land, ocean, and living organisms.

Carbon Sink

A reservoir that stores more carbon than it releases, effectively reducing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Animal Agriculture

A process contributing to carbon release into the atmosphere, notable for emissions from livestock, such as cow burps and farts.

Deforestation

The clearing of forests which results in the release of stored carbon into the atmosphere.

Cellular Respiration

The process by which animals and plants convert glucose into energy, releasing carbon dioxide as a byproduct.

Direct Exchange

The rapid movement of carbon between the atmosphere and the ocean, where it dissolves into and out of ocean water.

Ocean Acidification

The decrease in pH levels of the ocean caused by increased carbon levels, impacting marine life.

Sedimentation

The process where dead marine organisms sink to the ocean floor and are broken down into sediments containing carbon.

Burial

A slow geological process in which carbon-containing sediments become compressed over time into sedimentary rock.