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Earth Systems & Cycles

The carbon cycle, water cycle, rock–water–atmosphere interactions, human impact, and mitigation.

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Carbon, Water & Earth Systems Interactions

Matter and energy exchanges between atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, and biosphere, including greenhouse effect and climate feedbacks.

Reference Table p. 14

  • 1
    Carbon sink processPhotosynthesis absorbs CO₂ from the atmosphere and stores it in organic tissue
  • 2
    Carbon release processRespiration and combustion of fossil fuels add CO₂ to the atmosphere
  • 3
    Greenhouse effect mechanismGreenhouse gases absorb outgoing terrestrial infrared (long-wave) radiation
  • 4
    Positive feedback exampleIce-albedo feedback: melting ice lowers reflectivity, absorbing more heat and accelerating melting
  • 5
    Water cycle energy sourceSolar insolation drives evaporation from surface waters