Final answer:
Cellular respiration is crucial in the carbon cycle since it releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere when organisms break down carbon compounds for energy. Autotrophs like plants absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, while heterotrophs such as animals return it by respiring.
Step-by-step explanation:
Importance of Cellular Respiration in the Carbon Cycle
Cellular respiration is a critical process in the carbon cycle as it helps in the circulation of carbon within ecosystems. Through respiration, heterotrophs such as animals, fungi, and non-photosynthesizing plants break down high-energy carbon compounds that they have acquired from autotrophs, releasing carbon dioxide (CO2) back into the atmosphere or the environment. Autotrophs, on the other hand, such as plants and algae in a terrarium, remove CO2 from the environment by means of photosynthesis, thus balancing the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Exchange Between Biosphere and Atmosphere
In a terrarium, autotrophs like plants utilize CO2 from the atmosphere and sunlight to create glucose and release oxygen. Heterotrophs, including animals and decomposers, consume these plants to obtain energy. During aerobic respiration, they use oxygen and release CO2, thereby completing the cycle of carbon between the biosphere and the atmosphere.