The carbon cycle consists of two interconnected systems: rapid exchange and long-term cycling through different components. The correct pairing of these components is:
B) photosynthesizers/autotrophs
Photosynthesizers, such as plants, algae, and some bacteria, play a crucial role in the carbon cycle by using sunlight to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into organic compounds during photosynthesis. Autotrophs, which include photosynthetic organisms and certain chemosynthetic bacteria, are able to produce their own food using simple inorganic substances and an external energy source like sunlight.
These organisms contribute to the rapid exchange of carbon in the cycle by incorporating carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into their biomass. As they grow and reproduce, they store carbon temporarily in their tissues. When these organisms die or are consumed, the carbon is released back into the cycle through decomposition or respiration, continuing the cycling of carbon through the environment.
