The Carbon Cycle

Why is carbon

important?

Why is carbon important?

Carbon is the main constituent of all living

cells

Carbon can form long chained-molecules

which are the basis for fats, carbohydrates,

nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and proteins.

Component of fuel (coal and gas).

Use in nanotubes for computers.

The Carbon Cycle

Learning Objectives:

To correctly label a carbon cycle

To describe the movement of carbon in the

carbon cycle

To explain factors which affect the carbon

cycle

Respiration

Photosynthesis

Combustion

glucose + oxygen → carbon dioxide + water (+ energy)

Burning of fuel to release carbon dioxide

CO2

Global warming

Increasing Carbon based gases in the

atmosphere leads to Global Warming

They act like an insulating blanket in the

atmosphere, causing climate change.

This can lead to: Melting the ice caps, rising

sea levels, more storms and rain in winter and

droughts in summer

Problems with food production and habitat

destruction.

Carbon Footprint

The amount of Carbon emitted into the

atmosphere by a person, we should all try

reduce our Carbon footprint.

How?

TRANSPORT & TRAVEL

AT HOME

FOOD

PRODUCTS WE BUY