Final answer:
The carbon cycle consists of two interconnected sub-cycles: the fast and living cycle, and the slow and non-living cycle. The fast and living cycle involves the rapid exchange of carbon between living organisms and the environment, while the slow and non-living cycle deals with the long-term cycling of carbon through geological processes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The carbon cycle can be divided into two interconnected sub-cycles: the fast and living cycle, and the slow and non-living cycle.
1. Fast and Living Cycle: This cycle involves the rapid exchange of carbon between living organisms and the environment. It includes processes like cellular respiration, photosynthesis, and organic carbon movement through food chains and webs.
2. Slow and Non-Living Cycle: This cycle deals with the long-term cycling of carbon through geological processes. It involves the storage of carbon in reservoirs such as the atmosphere, oceans, sediments, and fossil fuels.
Learn more about Stages of the Carbon Cycle