In the biosphere of our planet, there are many complex processes caused by the vital activity of organisms, human exposure and evolutionary changes occurring in the depths of the bowels and in the depths of the oceans. The main one is the carbon cycle. Without it, life on Earth is impossible.
By and large, the carbon cycle is a global mechanism responsible for the absorption and release of
carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
. We all know carbon uptake as photosynthesis, and plants are responsible for this part. Emission / return of carbon dioxide occurs through its exhalation by living organisms, the work of industrial enterprises and decomposition processes
The carbon cycle scheme will allow a more complete presentation of this process, which consists of two stages:
- The absorption of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) by plants, microscopic living organisms and its subsequent conversion into more complex basic chemical compounds (fats, carbohydrates, proteins).
- The return of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere through the breathing of living things and in other ways.
However, the carbon cycle is a more complex process. So, after the death of organisms, some of them are processed by bacteria and really return to the atmosphere in a rather short time. But part of the remains turns into dead organic matter.
It is these organic remains that will be transformed in a few hundred years, and eventually turn into coal, oil or peat. These fossils will be used by man for various purposes, and carbon from them will be returned to the atmosphere.
I would also like to dwell on the process of returning CO 2 to the carbon cycle.
Fats. The breakdown of fats of various origin is possible due to the participation in this process of microorganisms with enzymes aimed at the breakdown of this compound. As a result, glycerin and higher fatty acids are formed. Glycerin breaks down into pyruvic acid (PVC). It, depending on the conditions, will turn into water, acid or alcohol, and a carbon molecule will be released into the air.
Carbohydrates. These substances are the main carriers of fiber, which
it is acquired and processed only by some microorganisms. During its processing, glucose is formed, which is oxidized by almost all types of fungi and bacteria. As a result, glucose will be broken down into water and carbon dioxide. This is not the only option. The oxidation process can lead to the formation of methane, but with the obligatory emission of carbon.
Due to the fact that all processes are not identical in terms of their course, there are two types of cycles of this substance in the biosphere:
- Geological (formation of minerals) - can be estimated in thousands and millions of years.
- Biological (death and decomposition of plants and animals) is a very active process that can take from several days to several years.
Of course, the description presented here is very superficial and does not reflect the essence of chemical and other processes due to which the carbon cycle is supported on the planet.