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The carbon cycle takes CO2 from the atmosphere in various ways, and then releases it back into the atmosphere. This is a balanced process, so there is always the same amount of CO2 in the atmosphere. This supports the natural greenhouse effect which has kept the planet warm for millions of years.

Human activity (deforestation and the discovery and burning of fossil fuels) is upsetting the natural balance. We cut down trees so more CO2 is left in the air. Burning fossil fuels releases carbon emissions that have been safely hidden underground for millions of years, so they are an extra burden. So the natural balance of the carbon cycle is upset, and we have global warming.

A:Through industry and transportation we release excess CO2 into the atmosphere, too much for vegetation to soak up so it stays in the atmosphere, making it thicker.
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Zackery Schumm

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3y ago

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How does the amount of carbon in the atmosphere stay the same?

The amount of carbon in the atmosphere stays relatively constant through a balance of carbon sources and sinks. Natural processes, like photosynthesis and respiration, regulate the levels of carbon dioxide. However, human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels, have disrupted this balance by releasing excess carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.


What would happen if all the decompose-rs are removed the carbon cycle?

In the absence of decomposers from carbon cycle heaps of organic matter will accumulate. This will ultimately disturb the natural balance.


At what point does human activity affect the natural cabon cycle?

Human activity affects the natural carbon cycle mainly through the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and land-use changes. These activities release excessive amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, leading to an imbalance in the carbon cycle and contributing to global warming.


What puts the most carbon dioxide into the atmosphere--respiration or fuel burning?

Burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas) in 2010 put over 10 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.Respiration (breathing) depends on activity. A person sleeping emits about 0.3 cubic metres an hour, however, with strenuous activity this rises to between 7 and 8 cm/h.The difference between them, of course, is that carbon dioxide from respiration is part of the natural carbon cycle, and is removed regularly from the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide from fuel burning is additional carbon dioxide that has been underground for millions of years, so releasing it now is causing global warming and climate change.


Why did the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere stay constant for thousands of years?

The levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere stayed constant for thousands of years because of the carbon cycle, which moves carbon throughout the air, oceans and land. There was also no burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas), and nobody had cut down the great forests of the world.

Related Questions

What process uses fossil fuels and is upsetting the balance of CO2 in the atmosphere?

The burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and gas, releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and climate change. This process disrupts the natural balance of CO2 levels in the atmosphere, leading to a range of environmental impacts.


Is it true that the natural carbon balance is largely maintained by the processes of photosynthesis and respiration?

yes


How does the amount of carbon in the atmosphere stay the same?

The amount of carbon in the atmosphere stays relatively constant through a balance of carbon sources and sinks. Natural processes, like photosynthesis and respiration, regulate the levels of carbon dioxide. However, human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels, have disrupted this balance by releasing excess carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.


What would happen if all the decompose-rs are removed the carbon cycle?

In the absence of decomposers from carbon cycle heaps of organic matter will accumulate. This will ultimately disturb the natural balance.


How might the increase in the burning of fossil fuels affect the carbon cycle?

Burning fossil fuels releases stored carbon into the atmosphere in the form of carbon dioxide. This can contribute to the increase of CO2 levels in the atmosphere, leading to global warming and climate change. This disrupts the natural balance of the carbon cycle by releasing more carbon than natural systems can absorb.


How does the burning of fossil fuels affect the carbon cycle?

Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, increasing the concentration of this greenhouse gas. This excess carbon dioxide traps heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and climate change. It disrupts the natural balance of the carbon cycle by adding more carbon to the atmosphere than can be absorbed by natural processes.


At what point does human activity affect the natural cabon cycle?

Human activity affects the natural carbon cycle mainly through the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and land-use changes. These activities release excessive amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, leading to an imbalance in the carbon cycle and contributing to global warming.


Where do you find carbon dioxide in the environment?

Carbon dioxide is found in the environment in the Earth's atmosphere, where it is a natural component of the air we breathe. It is also produced through natural processes like respiration and volcanic activity, as well as human activities such as burning fossil fuels.


Where can you find carbon dioxide in the environment?

Carbon dioxide can be found in the environment in the Earth's atmosphere, where it is a natural component of the air we breathe. It is also released through processes like respiration, combustion, and volcanic activity.


Does human activity have little or no impact on cycles?

No.Human activity (burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas) in industry, transport and the generation of electricity) is having a serious effect on the carbon cycle, by adding extra carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.Human activity (pollution, overuse) is having a serious effect on the water cycle and the amount of fresh water available to our communities.


What are the carbon sinks?

Carbon sinks are natural or artificial reservoirs that absorb and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change. Examples of carbon sinks include forests, oceans, and soil. By capturing carbon dioxide, these sinks play a crucial role in helping to balance the carbon cycle and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.


What can be done to help keep the balance of carbon dioxide and oxygen?

To help keep the balance of carbon dioxide and oxygen, planting trees and other vegetation can help absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis. Additionally, reducing carbon emissions from industrial activities and transportation can help prevent an excess build-up of carbon dioxide. Lastly, promoting sustainable practices that preserve natural habitats and ecosystems can help maintain the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.