Process of carbon release: b. combustion of fossil fuels, c. combustion of wood, d. microbial decomposition
Process of carbon uptake: a. cellular respiration, e. photosynthesis
Carbon reservoir (storage): f. carbonic acid in oceans, g. living and nonliving biomass
The processes and reservoirs involved in the carbon cycle play a crucial role in the exchange of carbon between the atmosphere, living organisms, and the Earth's various reservoirs. Carbon release processes involve the liberation of carbon into the atmosphere. Combustion of fossil fuels (b) and combustion of wood (c) release carbon dioxide into the air, contributing to the atmospheric carbon pool. Microbial decomposition (d) is another process that releases carbon from decaying organic matter back into the atmosphere.
On the other hand, processes of carbon uptake involve the absorption or assimilation of carbon by living organisms. Cellular respiration (a) is a metabolic process in which organisms take up carbon from organic compounds, releasing energy in the process. Photosynthesis (e) is a vital biological process where plants, algae, and some bacteria use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide into organic compounds, contributing to carbon uptake.
Carbon reservoirs, or storage locations, are critical components of the carbon cycle. Carbonic acid in oceans (f) represents a reservoir where carbon is stored in the dissolved form. Living and nonliving biomass (g) encompasses both plant and animal life as well as decaying organic matter, serving as a significant carbon reservoir.