How does carbon move between soil and air?

We know from our carbon model and our investigations that 121 GtC are taken in by plants during photosynthesis. 60 GtC are put back into the air through plant cellular respiration. We also figured out that 10 GtC from the products of photosynthesis are stored as biomass in the plant. That leaves us with 51 GtC that are unaccounted for (121 GtC - 60 GtC - 10 GtC = 51 GtC). We can gather more information about where the additional 51 GtC go by watching an animation that zooms in more closely on what is happening inside and outside of plants. 

Watch the animation twice. The first time you watch it, pay attention to the movement of carbons. The second time you watch it, focus on where the majority of the carbon produced by a plant goes and how long it stays there.

Discuss with your group or class:

• What does the plant use carbon for?

• What is the role that root cells play in the cycling of carbon?

• Where do the extra 51 GtC/year produced by plants go?

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Credits

Climate Education Pathways