What do plants do with the carbon from carbon dioxide and factors affecting distribution activity and population of soil microorganisms?
Dear Naresh,
Carbon Cycle in Plants
Plants are living creatures that experience the carbon cycle. There are two processes in the carbon cycle in plants, namely photosynthesis and respiration. Explanation of the carbon cycle in plants:
A. Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis is the process of preparing organic substances (sugar) from inorganic substances (water, carbon dioxide) with the help of sunlight energy. Because the raw material used is carbon (carbon dioxide), it can also be called carbon assimilation.
Generally, the photosynthesis process reacts and combines carbon dioxide and water into sugar using solar radiation energy. The process of photosynthesis generally only takes place in plants that have chlorophyll during the day, as long as there is a light source.
After that, the radiation energy from sunlight is converted into chemical energy by carbon dioxide gas. Therefore, carbon in the photosynthesis process will be utilized by plants in developing and continuing to carry out photosynthesis.
B. Respiration
Plants, besides carrying out photosynthesis, also go through the process of respiration. Respiration is breathing, which aims to carry out the process of dismantling or burning energy source substances in the body's cells to obtain energy.
Combustion requires oxygen and occurs within every living cell. The energy obtained is in the form of chemical energy, which is used for various physiological activities in the body. In addition, combustion produces residual substances in the form of charcoal acid gas (CO2) and water.
Plants also absorb oxygen for respiration, generally through the leaves (stomata). In aerobic conditions, plants carry out aerobic respiration. When in an anaerobic condition or lacking oxygen, the tissue respires anaerobically. This occurs in waterlogged roots.
Factors that influence the distribution and population of soil microorganisms include soil organic matter, soil reaction (pH), soil water content, and land use methods. Hopefully it answers your question, Rk Naresh. Thank You
Plants and Carbon Dioxide
Plants play a crucial role in the carbon cycle by utilizing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere for photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, plants capture sunlight energy and use it to convert CO2 and water into carbohydrates (sugars) and oxygen. This process not only generates the oxygen we breathe but also serves as the primary source of energy for plants and the foundation of the food chain.
The carbon captured by plants through photosynthesis is eventually incorporated into their tissues, such as leaves, stems, and roots. When plants die and decompose, this carbon is released back into the soil and atmosphere, completing the carbon cycle.
Factors Affecting Soil Microorganisms
The distribution, activity, and population of soil microorganisms are influenced by a combination of factors, including:
- Soil Type: Different soil types have varying physical and chemical properties that affect the suitability for specific microorganisms. Sandy soils tend to be well-drained but low in nutrients, while clay soils retain water and nutrients but can be less aerated.
- Moisture Content: Soil moisture is crucial for microbial activity. Microorganisms require water for their metabolic processes, and drought conditions can significantly reduce their numbers and activity.
- Organic Matter Content: Organic matter serves as a primary energy source for many soil microorganisms. Soils with higher organic matter content generally support a more diverse and active microbial community.
- Temperature: Soil temperature significantly impacts microbial activity. Microorganisms have optimal temperature ranges for growth and reproduction. Extreme temperatures, either too hot or too cold, can reduce microbial activity or even lead to their death.
- pH: Soil pH affects the availability of nutrients and the overall environment for microorganisms. Certain microorganisms thrive in acidic soils, while others prefer alkaline conditions.
- Chemical Pollutants: The presence of pesticides, herbicides, and other chemical pollutants can harm or even eliminate certain soil microorganisms, disrupting the microbial community and reducing soil fertility.
In summary, plants and soil microorganisms play essential roles in the carbon cycle and soil health. Plants utilize CO2 for photosynthesis, while soil microorganisms decompose organic matter and cycle nutrients, contributing to plant growth and maintaining soil fertility. Understanding the factors influencing soil microorganisms is crucial for sustainable agricultural practices and ecosystem management.
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