Understanding What the Carbon Cycle Is
The carbon cycle is the natural process that moves carbon between the atmosphere, oceans, plants, animals, and the ground. It helps keep Earth’s climate stable.
How Carbon Moves Through the Atmosphere
Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is released into the air through breathing, volcanoes, and burning fuels. Plants absorb CO₂ during photosynthesis, helping balance the cycle.
Carbon in Plants and Animals
Plants use carbon to grow. When animals eat plants, the carbon becomes part of their bodies. When plants and animals die, carbon returns to the soil.
Carbon Stored in the Earth
Carbon can stay trapped underground in rocks, fossils, and fossil fuels for millions of years. Over time, geological processes release it back into the atmosphere.
Carbon in the Oceans
Oceans absorb a large amount of carbon from the air. Marine plants and animals use this carbon, and some of it sinks to the ocean floor.
Why the Carbon Cycle Matters
The carbon cycle keeps the amount of carbon in balance. If too much carbon builds up in the atmosphere, it affects climate and temperature.
Human Impact on the Carbon Cycle
Burning fossil fuels and cutting forests add extra carbon to the atmosphere, disrupting the cycle and contributing to climate change.
The Simple Takeaway
The carbon cycle is the movement of carbon through the air, water, ground, and living things. It keeps the planet’s climate and life systems in balance.