THE CARBON CYCLE

  1. Carbon dioxide Is removed from the atmosphere by green plants and algae during photosynthesis The carbon is used to make glucose, which can be turned into carbohydrate, fats and proteins that make up the bodies of plants and algae

  2. When the Plants and algae respire some of the carbon is returned back into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide

  3. When the plants and the algae are eaten by animals , Some carbon that comes part of the fats and proteins in their body the carbon then moves through the food chain

  4. When the animal respire, some carbon is returned to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide

  5. When plants algae and animals, die other animals (decomposers) and microorganisms feed on their remains. When these organisms respire, CO2 is returned back into the atmosphere.

  6. Animals also produces waste that is broken down by the decomposers and microorganisms

  7. The combustion ( burning ) of wood and fossil fuels ( made up of decayed plant and animal matter (also carbon)) also releases carbon dioxide back into the air

  8. So the carbon is constantly being recycled– From the air, through food, chains, via plants, algae, and animals, and decomposers and microorganisms, and then eventually back into our air again