The various proccesses by which carbon, in the form of carbon dioxide, is removed and released into the enviroment makes up the carbon cycle.
Removal of CO2 from the environment
During photosynthesis, green plants absorb carbon dioxied from the environment and use it to manufacture carbohydrates. i.e.: glucose.
Glucose may be changed into other organic compounds such as fats, amino acids and proteins.
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When animals feed on these green plants, the carbon compounds becomes a part of their body.
Carbon compounds may be preserved in fossil fules such as coal, natural gas and oil.
Release of CO2 into the environment
Carbon dioxide is released into the environment through 3 proccess:
Respiration
When organisms respire, carbon compounds like glucose are broken down in their bodies and carbon dioxide is released into the environment.
2.Combustion
When fossil fuels like coal and natural gas are burnt or undergo combustion, carbon compounds preserved in the fossil fules are broken down and CO2 is released.
3.Decay
When organisms die, their bodies decay or are broken down into simpler substances by decomposers. Carbon dioxide is one of the simple substances released during decay. Some of the simpler substances are absorbed by the decomposers to become a part of their body. When the decomposers respire, carbon compounds are broken down and carbon dioxide is given off. I.e.: Methanobacterium- Utilises acetate and produces methan and carbon dioxide.
