Earth and Space Notes

Convection Currents

• Definition: Movement of material in the Earth's mantle due to temperature differences.

• Role in Plate Tectonics: Convection currents drive the movement of tectonic plates.

Carbon Cycle

• Components:

  • Photosynthesis: Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

  • Respiration: Release of carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere by animals and decomposers.

  • Decomposition: Breakdown of organic matter, releasing carbon.

  • Combustion: Burning of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Evidence for Plate Tectonics

• Features:

  • Similar coastline shapes.

  • Distribution of fossils across continents.

  • Patterns of seismic activity indicating plate boundaries.

Key Processes in the Carbon Cycle

• Photosynthesis and Respiration:

  • Photosynthesis removes CO2.

  • Respiration returns CO2.

• Feeding: Animals consume plants, transferring carbon through the food web.

• Decomposition: Breakdown of dead organisms reintroduces carbon into the cycle.

• Fossilization: Turning organic matter into fossil fuels over geological time scales.