The carbon cycle and types of carbon cycle.pptx

types of carbon cycle

1. The carbon cycle is generally divided into two main types based on the speed of carbon movement: Fast Carbon Cycle (Biological Cycle) This cycle involves the rapid exchange of carbon between the atmosphere, oceans, land, and living organisms (biosphere). Processes occur relatively quickly, typically over days, months, or years.

2. Key processes include: Photosynthesis: Plants, algae, and phytoplankton absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere or water and convert it into organic compounds (sugars). Respiration: Plants and animals break down organic compounds for energy, releasing 𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑏𝑜𝑛 𝑑𝑖𝑜𝑥𝑖𝑒 ack into the atmosphere or water. Decomposition: Decomposers (bacteria and fungi) break down dead organic matter, releasing carbon into the soil and atmosphere as 𝐶𝑂2 or methane. Oceanic Exchange: 𝐶O2 dissolves in surface ocean waters, and a two- way exchange occurs to maintain equilibrium with the atmosphere.

3. Slow Carbon Cycle (Geological Cycle) This cycle involves the long- term storage and movement of carbon through geological processes, taking millions of years to complete. Key processes include: Sedimentation and Burial: Organic matter and calcium carbonate shells from marine organisms sink to the ocean floor, accumulate, and are buried and compacted over millions of years to form sedimentary rocks like limestone and fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas). Subduction and Volcanism: Tectonic plate movements subduct carbon- rich sedimentary rocks deep into the Earth's mantle. The intense heat and pressure cause the rocks to melt and release 𝐶𝑂2 which is then vented back into the atmosphere through volcanic eruptions. Weathering: The chemical weathering of silicate rocks on the Earth's surface removes 𝐶O2 from the atmosphere; this carbon is carried by rivers to the ocean, eventually forming carbonate minerals. Human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels and land- use changes (like deforestation), significantly disrupt the natural balance of these cycles by transferring stored carbon from the slow cycle to the fast cycle, which increases atmospheric 𝐶𝑂2 levels.