This is an example essay for the question 'Examine how feedback loops can affect the processes and stores within the carbon cycle [10 marks]'. It is marked 10/10
Examine how feedback loops can affect the processes and stores within the carbon
cycle [10 marks]
The carbon cycle is the process whereby carbon flows between the atmosphere, biosphere,
ocean and soils which can range in speed via the slow or fast carbon cycle. In recent years
the volume of carbon in the atmosphere has increased due to the increased burning of fossil
fuels, emitting 100 billion tonnes of carbon into the atmosphere every year. Negative
feedback loops can work to sequester more carbon dioxide by carbon fertilisation. This
involves increasing photosynthesis rates of plants and phytoplankton, which will increase
carbon dioxide of carbon stored in the biosphere, extracting carbon dioxide from the
atmosphere. Increased carbon dioxide dissolving into the ocean can facilitate increased
carbon dioxide stored in the ocean, thus reducing anthropogenic carbon dioxide
concentrations. These negative feedback loops work to reverse the changes increased
burning of fossil fuels is having on the carbon cycle.
However, positive feedback loops could result in a further carbon disequilibrium, increasing
the volume of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, therefore exacerbating the effects of global
warming.This process can occur as increased carbon dioxide a greenhouse gas, increases
greenhouse effect which results in greater terrestrial radiation, increasing global
temperatures. As a result this will increase the activity of decomposers who thrive in warm,
humid environments. Decomposers break down dead organic matter, releasing carbon
dioxide into the atmosphere, thus increasing the concentration of carbon dioxide in the
atmosphere. Increased temperatures can also result in the melting of permafrost, releasing
around 7 to 40 million tonnes of carbon into the atmosphere each year. Increased
temperatures results in permafrost ranging from a carbon sink to a carbon source
furthermore, increased carbon levels results in increased carbon dioxide dissolving in the
ocean which causes ocean acidification. This threatens the livelihoods of phytoplankton, who
sequester more than 50% of all carbon dioxide emitted from fossil fuels.
Positive feedback loops could result in dramatic increases in anthropogenic carbon dioxide
pushing the carbon cycle into disequilibrium, increasing the greenhouse effect and thus
having drastic effects on the world as we know it.
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller poppystein9. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for £7.36. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.
