THE CARBON CYCLE-part 3. Carbon Cycle The same carbon atoms are used over and over on earth. They cycle between the earth & the atmosphere

THE CARBON CYCLE-part 3

Carbon Cycle

The same carbon atoms are used over and over on earth.

They cycle between the earth & the atmosphere.

Carbon Storage…Fossil Fuels

Some organisms are not decomposed fully & end up in deposits underground (oil, coal, etc… known as fossil fuels).


Carbon is stored in rocks & underground deposits & is released very slowly into the atmosphere.


This process takes many years and is called a carbon sink or carbon store.

Fossil Fuels and CO2

When fossil fuels are burned, the carbon in them is released to the atmosphere.

Human Impact

Burning anything releases more carbon into the atmosphere — especially fossil fuels.

Burning Fossil Fuels releases carbon stores

Increased carbon dioxide in atmosphere increases the greenhouse effect.

Human Impact

Scientists think this leads to Global Climate Change.

Fewer plants = less CO2 removed from the atmosphere.

Greenhouse Effect and Climate Change

The sun’s energy bounces off the surface of the Earth.


Greenhouse gases form a layer in the atmosphere that traps some of the energy. Examples: Carbon Dioxide and Water (vapor). This warms the Earth. Without this layer, it

would be too cold for life as we know it.


The more carbon dioxide that is released to the atmosphere, the warmer the earth becomes.


This causes changes in different climates around the world.

Cycle – Repeats Over and Over and Over and Over …

Carbon Cycle Diagram

Carbon in Atmosphere

Plants use carbon to make food

Animals eat plants and take in carbon

Plants and

animals die

Decomposers break down dead things,

releasing carbon to

atmosphere &soil

Bodies not decomposed —

after many years, become part of oil or coal deposits

(fossil fuels)

Fossil fuels are burned;

carbon is returned to atmosphereCarbon slowly

released from these

substances returns to

atmosphere

Carbon Storage…Oceans

Carbon reacts with sea water and is stored in the ocean…this is another Carbon Sink or Carbon Store. Oceans contain earth’s largest store of carbon.

Many animals pull carbon from water to make shells, etc.

Animals die and carbon substances are deposited at the bottom of the ocean.

The Carbon Cycle

What can we do to limit climate change?

Burn less, especially fossil fuelsPromote plant life, especially trees

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THE CARBON CYCLE-part 3. Carbon Cycle The same carbon atoms are used over and over on earth. They cycle between the earth & the atmosphere