

These two subcycles are separated but interconnected in that they both rely on the same stores of carbon and influence each other. Generally, the carbon cycle is split between two subcycles the first concerning the short-term transfer of carbon materials among living organisms and the second focused on the long-term cycling of carbon through geological processes. The carbon cycle has been severely offset due to the exponential growth of human carbon emissions in the last 150 years. Over time, these cycles have developed to maintain a near constant level of carbon in each component. The cycle of carbon between these 4 components is facilitated by a wide variety of chemical reactions. Together, these 4 separate systems interact and cycle carbon between each other. Geological sources (sediment/ crust and mantle).The 4 major components of the carbon cycle are: These components form the bulk of carbon reserves on the planet. The carbon cycle concerns the transfer of carbon between important components of Earth’s systems. The carbon cycle, along with the water, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycles, forms a network of extremely important interactions that are necessary for life as we know it. The carbon cycle refers to the biogeochemical process by which carbon is cycled through the atmosphere, oceans, geological strata, and living systems on earth. Carbon is also an important component of many kinds of rocks and minerals. It has 4 valence electrons which allow it to create a virtually endless amount of organic compounds.

Carbon is so useful for life because of its electron structure. About 18% of your body by mass is made entirely of carbon, without which you would have no DNA, cells, or even basic glucose molecules to metabolize for energy. Every living creature requires carbon to function and most organic molecules consist of chains of hydrogen and carbon molecules. Carbon is quite possibly the most important element required for life.
