AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The oceanic carbon cycle (or marine carbon cycle) is composed of processes that exchange carbon between various pools within the ocean as well as between the atmosphere, Earth interior, and the seafloor.

Detailed explanation-2: -The oceans play a particularly important role in the carbon cycle. Surface waters exchange gases with the atmosphere, absorbing and releasing carbon dioxide, oxygen, and other gases. Plant-like phytoplankton living in the ocean convert carbon dioxide into sugars that feed marine ecosystems.

Detailed explanation-3: -Climate and the Carbon Cycle Phytoplankton are responsible for most of the transfer of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to the ocean. Carbon dioxide is consumed during photosynthesis, and the carbon is incorporated in the phytoplankton, just as carbon is stored in the wood and leaves of a tree.

Detailed explanation-4: -Carbon gets incorporated into marine organisms as organic matter or structural calcium carbonate. When organisms die, their dead cells, shells and other parts sink into deep water. Decay releases carbon dioxide into this deep water.