Material cycles: the carbon cycle
I can describe the processes in the carbon cycle.
Material cycles: the carbon cycle
I can describe the processes in the carbon cycle.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Carbon is found in the atmosphere as carbon dioxide.
- The carbon cycle shows how carbon is recycled between organisms and the atmosphere.
- Carbon dioxide can be removed from the atmosphere by plants, who use it during the process of photosynthesis.
- Carbon is returned to the atmosphere by the burning of fossil fuels and the decay of dead plant and animal material.
Common misconception
The atmosphere is made up of mainly oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Explain that Earth's atmosphere is delicately balanced. There is enough oxygen to maintain life, and enough carbon dioxide to help insulate the planet, maintaining the temperature that allows life to exist.
Keywords
Atmosphere - The atmosphere is a layer of gases that surround a planet. It may contain small amounts of solid and liquid particles.
Combustion - In a combustion reaction, fuel is burned and reacts with oxygen to provide energy. Carbon dioxide is released in combustion reactions.
Cellular respiration - Cellular respiration is a chemical process in cells, which uses glucose as a fuel to provide energy for life processes.
Photosynthesis - Producers make their own food using a series of chemical reactions called photosynthesis. The reaction includes taking in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Equipment
None.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
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