CO2körforgást

CO2körforgást, also known as the carbon cycle, is the biogeochemical process by which carbon atoms continuously travel from the atmosphere to the Earth and then back into the atmosphere. This cycle is fundamental to life on Earth and plays a crucial role in regulating the planet's climate. Carbon exists in various forms, including carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere and oceans, organic matter in plants and animals, and fossil fuels in the Earth's crust.

The cycle involves several key processes. Photosynthesis, carried out by plants and algae, removes CO2 from the atmosphere and converts it into organic compounds. Respiration, performed by living organisms, releases CO2 back into the atmosphere. Decomposition of dead organic matter by microbes also returns carbon to the atmosphere and soil. Additionally, the oceans act as a significant carbon sink, absorbing vast amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere.

Human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, have significantly altered the natural carbon cycle. These activities release large quantities of CO2 into the atmosphere, leading to an increase in greenhouse gas concentrations and contributing to global warming and climate change. Understanding the CO2körforgást is essential for developing strategies to mitigate the impacts of human-induced climate change and maintain the health of the planet.