kooldioxidecyclus

The kooldioxidecyclus, often referred to as the carbon cycle, describes the movement of carbon atoms between the Earth's atmosphere, oceans, land, and living organisms. This cycle is crucial for regulating Earth's climate and sustaining life.

Carbon exists in various forms, including carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere, dissolved in oceans, as organic matter in soils and rocks, and in fossil fuels. Photosynthesis is a key process in the cycle, where plants absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and convert it into organic compounds, using sunlight as energy. Animals obtain carbon by consuming plants or other animals.

Respiration, the process by which organisms release energy, returns CO2 to the atmosphere. Decomposition, carried out by bacteria and fungi, breaks down dead organic matter, also releasing carbon back into the environment. Over geological timescales, carbon can be stored in sedimentary rocks and fossil fuels.

Human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, have significantly increased the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere. This elevated level of atmospheric CO2 is a primary driver of climate change, leading to global warming and its associated impacts. Understanding the kooldioxidecyclus is essential for addressing these environmental challenges.