It is the set of transformations that occur around compounds that contain carbon among its components. This constant and natural process happens between the layers of earth where there is life: the biosphere, a place destined for the development of animal and plant life; the atmosphere, our great protective layer from the sun's rays; the hydrosphere, a surface of water containing a great nutritive and mineral product; and the lithosphere, which serves as the first layer of land below the biosphere.
What is the carbon cycle
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The biogeochemical carbon cycle is the process in which carbon is exchanged between the layers of the earth, such as the biosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and Earth's atmosphere. In this process, carbon is used in different ways, making it a key element for sustaining life on the planet.
Oceans and plants are great absorbers of carbon dioxide and emitters of oxygen, although there are certain regions in which the sea loses gas and emits more CO2 than is absorbed, forming a carbon dioxide cycle.
On the other hand, plants absorb this element and convert it into proteins and fats in plant tissue; herbivorous animals consume these plants; and consequently, carnivorous animals consume herbivores; which in turn will issue the item, so the cycle will repeat itself.
Components of the carbon cycle
This cycle involves several essential participants that are part of the characteristics of the carbon cycle, which are:
The atmosphere
In the Earth's atmosphere, carbon is present as carbon dioxide and methane, although the latter is less present. The importance of both is that they help preserve heat in the atmosphere. This will leave the atmosphere through plant photosynthesis or by entering the seas, which will return oxygen instead.
The biosphere
This includes carbon in all living and dead organisms on Earth, even in soils that are the product of fossilized organisms. Most of this element in the biosphere is of organic origin, while a third of it is stored in inorganic ways. Its absorption in it depends on biotic factors, so it is governed by a diurnal and seasonal cycle.
Sediments
Sediments such as fossil fuels, inert organic waste materials and water systems, have a high carbon content, intervening in the process.
Human influence
This has produced changes in the cycle, a product of the activities it carries out, especially since the Industrial Revolution, since factories release an exorbitant amount of carbon dioxide, more than the oceans and plants can absorb. In addition, the felling of trees and the pollution of the oceans by man, has also altered and aggravated the situation.
Importance of the carbon cycle
The composition and decomposition of carbon, allows an evolutionary character in matter, since there is a significant number of organisms that have it. That is why the vigilance of this cycle and the fact that it is kept in perfect harmony with the environment is a very great responsibility for those who are involved in it.
The carbon cycle means a correct assimilation of the mineral, especially from respiration, which allows the body to live and breathe, being a fundamental process for all living beings. In return, the body produces sweat and other waste to use the Earth and thus a continuity in the carbon cycle occurs.
Carbon cycle images
Next, some images will be presented for a better understanding of the process, such as a model carbon cycle, a drawing of the carbon cycle or some diagram of the carbon cycle.
