Carbon Cycle
What is the Carbon Cycle
The carbon cycle is the natural movement of carbon through the atmosphere, living organisms, oceans, and land
Main human source of CO₂
The burning of fossil fuels like coal, and oil
What are greenhouse gases
Gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, preventing it from escaping into space and warming the planet
One simple way to reduce CO₂
Walking, or cycling
Name a place Carbon is stored
Land, Living or Dead Organisms, Atmosphere and the Ocean
How does cutting trees affect carbon
Releasing stored carbon into the atmosphere and reducing the planet's ability to absorb more carbon dioxide
Name one greenhouse gas
Carbon Dioxide
What does recycling prevent
Reduces waste in landfills, lowers energy use, decreases CO₂ emissions
How do plants use CO₂
Through a process called photosynthesis to create their own food
How do fossil fuels add “extra” carbon
They release carbon that was stored underground for millions of years back into the atmosphere very quickly through burning
Why does Earth need a little greenhouse effect
To stay warm enough to support life
How does planting trees
Trees absorb CO₂, producing oxygen and storing carbon
What returns carbon to the atmosphere naturally
Respiration by plants and animals, the decomposition of organic matter, volcanic activity, and the exchange of gases between the oceans and the atmosphere
One daily habit that increases emissions
Driving a gasoline-powered car for a short commute
What happens when there’s too much
They trap excessive heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming and climate change
How does saving electricity reduce CO₂
Less electricity use → less burning of fossil fuels → fewer greenhouse gases
Why must the cycle stay balanced
To keep Earth's climate stable and support life
Why can’t Earth remove carbon fast enough
Human emissions are occurring far too quickly for natural processes and current technology to keep up
How does this connect to global warming
Greenhouse gases trap heat, and human activities are increasing these gases, leading to a rise in Earth's average temperature
One realistic school-based action
Start a recycling program, plant trees on campus, or reduce energy use in classrooms