Paper 3 structured question: Nutrient cycles
Paper 3Theory (Core)2 marks
Diagram Description
Simplified Carbon Cycle
The diagram shows carbon moving between the atmosphere, plants, animals, soil, and fossil fuels through processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, feeding, decomposition, fossil fuel formation, and combustion.
| Process | Description |
|---|---|
| Photosynthesis | Plants take in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. |
| Respiration | Plants and animals release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. |
| Feeding | Animals obtain carbon by eating plants. |
| Decomposition | Dead organisms are broken down, returning carbon to soil and air. |
| Fossil fuel formation | Dead organisms form fossil fuels over millions of years. |
| Combustion | Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide. |
- a[2]
Describe Describe the role of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle.