4 (a) The diagram shows the processes involved in the carbon cycle - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 4 - 2012 - Paper 1
Question 4
4 (a) The diagram shows the processes involved in the carbon cycle. Each process is numbered.
atmospheric carbon dioxide
5
1
2
3
bacteria and fungi in th... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:4 (a) The diagram shows the processes involved in the carbon cycle - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 4 - 2012 - Paper 1
Step 1
What is the name of process 1?
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Answer
Process 1 is C photosynthesis. This process involves plants taking in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and converting it into organic matter using sunlight.
Step 2
Describe the numbered processes that return carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.
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Answer
Respiration: Organisms, including plants and animals, release carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere during respiration as they break down sugars for energy.
Decomposition: When organisms die, decomposers such as bacteria and fungi break down their bodies, releasing carbon dioxide as a byproduct of this process.
Combustion: When organic material such as wood or fossil fuels is burned, it releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, contributing to the cycling of carbon.