Carbon Sink - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

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A carbon sink is a natural system that absorbs more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it releases, helping to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases and combat climate change. Plants, oceans, and soil are the main examples of carbon sinks. Trees and other plants use carbon dioxide during photosynthesis to make food, storing the carbon in their leaves, stems, and roots. Oceans absorb carbon dioxide directly from the air and store it in the water. By capturing and holding carbon, these sinks play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of gases in our atmosphere, which is important for keeping Earth's climate stable.

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Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

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