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Carbon Cycle
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Carbon | Carbon-in the form of different kinds of carbon-containing molecules-moves through an endless cycle |
| When does the carbon cycle begin? | When plants and algae remove carbon from the environment during photosynthesis |
| How does carbon return to the atmosphere? | Via several carbon-cycle pathways |
| Stage A | Air contains carbon in the form of carbon dioxide gas. Plants and algae use carbon dioxide to make sugars, which are energy-rich, carbon-containing compounds. |
| Stage B | Organisms break down sugar molecules made by plants and algae to obtain energy for life and growth. Carbon dioxide is released as a waste. |
| Stage C | Burning fossil fuels and wood releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. |
| Stage D | When organisms die, their carbon containing molecules become part of the soil. These molecules are broken down by fungi, bacteria, and other decomposers. During this decay process, carbon dioxide is released in the air. |
| Stage E | Under certain conditions, the remains of some dead organisms may gradually be changed into fossil fuels, such as coal, gas, and oil. These carbon compounds are energy rich. |