Question 1: Define the term 'carbon fixation' within the context of the carbon cycle.

Answer: The process by which inorganic carbon (CO2) is converted into organic compounds by living organisms, especially during photosynthesis.

Question 2: Explain how carbon is transferred from the atmosphere to plants.

Answer: Carbon is transferred from the atmosphere to plants primarily through photosynthesis, where plants absorb CO2 and convert it into glucose and other organic molecules.

Question 3: What role do decomposers play in the carbon cycle?

Answer: Decomposers break down dead organic matter, releasing carbon back into the atmosphere as CO2 through respiration.

Question 4: Calculate the amount of carbon (in grams) stored in 5 kg of dry plant material, given that 45% of the dry mass is carbon.

Answer: 2.25 grams

Question 1: Describe a simple experimental setup to measure the rate of photosynthesis in aquatic plants and how it relates to carbon uptake.

Answer: Set up an aquatic plant in a transparent container with a known volume of water, supply with CO2, and measure oxygen production or carbon dioxide absorption over time using appropriate sensors or indicators. Variables include light intensity, CO2 concentration, and temperature. Safety precautions involve handling electrical equipment safely and avoiding exposure to bright lights.

Question 2: Identify three variables that should be controlled in an experiment measuring carbon dioxide uptake by plants.

Answer: Light intensity, temperature, and CO2 concentration.

Question 1: A study shows that in a forest, 60% of the carbon fixed by plants is released back into the atmosphere within a year. Discuss the implications of this rapid turnover for carbon storage in forests.

Answer: Rapid carbon turnover means forests may not store large amounts of carbon long-term, making them important for short-term carbon cycling but less effective as carbon sinks unless carbon is transferred to long-term storage like soils or biomass.

Question 2: If a farmland has a decreased rate of organic matter decomposition, what effect would this have on atmospheric CO2 levels?

Answer: Decreased decomposition would reduce CO2 released into the atmosphere, potentially lowering atmospheric CO2 levels temporarily.

Question 1: Describe how reforestation projects can help mitigate climate change through the carbon cycle.

Answer: Reforestation increases the number of trees that absorb CO2 during photosynthesis, thereby removing excess carbon from the atmosphere and storing it in biomass, which helps reduce greenhouse gases and mitigate climate change.

Question 2: Identify one technological development that could enhance understanding or management of the carbon cycle.

Answer: Development of remote sensing technology and satellite monitoring systems to track carbon dioxide levels and fluxes globally.