Carbon Cycle

The carbon cycle is a biogeochemical cycle in which carbon is cycled throughout the earth. Carbon cycles throughout plants, animals and the atmosphere in 4 steps.

Steps in the Carbon Cycle Photosynthesis Cellular Respiration Decomposition Combustion

Photosynthesis The process of autotrophs taking in sunlight, carbon dioxide and water and converting it into glucose and oxygen.

Cellular Respiration The process of organisms taking glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2) and converting it into energy needed to carry our life processes. Exs. Mitosis, active transport, running, thinking, eating, meiosis.

Decomposition process by which tissues of a dead organism break down into simpler forms of matter. Returns carbon to the soil.

Combustion a chemical reaction producing noticeable light and heat. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a product of combustion.

Carbon Cycle