4.10 describe the stages in the carbon cycle, including respiration, photosynthesis, decomposition and combustion

Carbon Cycle: movement of carbon molecules in the environment.


















1. Respiration
- all living organisms respire aerobically and release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere as organic compounds that are broken down to release energy.

2. Photosynthesis
- fixes carbon atoms from atmospheric carbon dioxide to organic molecules and becomes a part of complex carbon compounds in plants.

3. Decomposition
- dead organisms are broken down by decomposers and carbon in their bodies return as carbon dioxide.

4. Combustion
- Decayed plants and animals are made into fossil fuels which burn to release carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.