What are the four main types of carbon fluxes and describe each of them. a. Photosynthesis: This refers to the process in which plants, algae, and some bacteria use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This helps to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store carbon in the form of organic matter.
b. Respiration: This is the process by which organisms release energy from organic compounds, such as glucose, and release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere as a byproduct. This flux occurs in both plants and animals.
c. Decomposition: This involves the breakdown of organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, by microorganisms, releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere. This is a crucial part of the carbon cycle as it returns carbon to the environment for reuse by other organisms.
d. Fossil fuel combustion: This is the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes. This releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and is a significant contributor to the increase in greenhouse gases.