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Geological Processes that Release Carbon

Carbon can be released into the atmosphere via the rock cycle.

Chemical weathering of rocks

Chemical weathering of rocks

  • Chemical weathering is the wearing away of rock by chemical reactions, causing material to dissolve through solution, hydrolysis and oxidation.
  • Slightly acidic rain (a carbonic acid) forms from carbon dioxide in the atmosphere being dissolved into rainwater.
  • When acidic rain hits carbon-rich rocks (e.g. limestone) it can dissolve material and form calcium carbonate.
  • These dissolved materials are then transported down rivers and deposited into the sea, forming into sedimentary rock.
Volcanic out-gassing

Volcanic out-gassing

  • Extreme heat from tectonic processes leads to sedimentary rock undergoing chemical changes, causing CO2 to be released into the atmosphere.
  • Volcanic activity happens at two types of plate boundaries:
    • Constructive plate boundaries, where two plates move apart.
    • Destructive subduction zones, when an oceanic plate subducts under a continental plate.
  • Volcanic activity at these plate boundaries causes CO2 to be released in out-gassing.
    • Out-gassing is common in geothermal locations like New Zealand.
Jump to other topics
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Tectonic Processes & Hazards

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Option 2A: Glaciated Landscapes & Change

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Option 2B: Coastal Landscapes & Change

4

Globalisation

5

Option 4A: Regenerating Places

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Option 4B: Diverse Places

7

The Water Cycle & Water Insecurity (A2 only)

8

The Carbon Cycle & Energy Security (A2 only)

9

Superpowers (A2 only)

10

Option 8A: Health & Human Rights (A2 only)

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Option 8B: Migration & Identity (A2 only)

Practice questions on Carbon Stores 2

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