This introduction to the carbon cycle helps students visualize and model global carbon pools in the environment. Students will identify the primary forms of carbon in global pools as well as the carbon transforming process associated with key global carbon fluxes (i.e. photosynthesis, respiration, combustion, etc). Note: this activity can serve as an introduction to the Poker Chip Model of Global Carbon Pools and Fluxes activity.
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Subjects
Biology
Chemistry
Earth Science
Engineering
Environmental Science
Physical Science
Physics
Topics
Carbon Cycle & Climate Change
Concepts/Skills
Carbon Cycle, Climate Change, Modeling, Photosynthesis, Respiration, Combustion
Prior Knowledge
Basic understanding of the global carbon cycle, forms of carbon in various pools, and types of fluxes
Time Required
One 50-minute class period (including discussion)
Required Supplies
Poster-size version of “Carbon Pools and Exchanges” diagram, physical representations of pools, molecular models of compounds, memo clips and cards with processes