What does the carbon cycle describe?

The carbon cycle describes the exchange of carbon between the atmosphere and living organisms, illustrating how carbon is utilized, transformed, and recycled within ecosystems. This cycle involves various processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and combustion.

In photosynthesis, plants take in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it into organic compounds, such as glucose, which provides energy for them and the organisms that consume them. When living organisms respire, they release carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere, completing the cycle. Additionally, the decomposition of organic matter releases stored carbon into the soil and atmosphere, further facilitating this exchange.

Understanding the carbon cycle is essential for grasping the broader implications of climate change, as it emphasizes the role of both natural processes and human activities in altering carbon levels in the atmosphere.