What does a model of the rock cycle show?
the amount of earths carbon is constant ←←??
the amount of earths carbon increases
the amount of earths carbon decreases
the amount of earths carbon cannot be determined
A model of the rock cycle shows the different processes and pathways by which rocks are formed, broken down, and transformed into different types of rocks over time. It illustrates how rocks go through various stages, such as weathering, erosion, deposition, sedimentation, compaction, and cementation.
Regarding the amount of Earth's carbon, the correct statement is that the amount of Earth's carbon is constant. This is because carbon atoms are constantly being recycled and exchanged through different processes, such as photosynthesis, respiration, and decomposition, maintaining a relatively stable carbon cycle on Earth.
A model of the rock cycle illustrates the process through which rocks are continuously formed, changed, and then reformed over time. It showcases the different stages and interactions involved in the cycle, including the formation of igneous rocks from molten magma, the transformation of igneous rocks into sedimentary rocks through weathering and erosion, and the conversion of sedimentary rocks into metamorphic rocks through heat and pressure.
Now, regarding your statement about the amount of Earth's carbon being constant, it is not accurate. The amount of Earth's carbon is not constant but instead cycles through various reservoirs, including the atmosphere, oceans, plants, animals, and rocks. This cycling of carbon is known as the carbon cycle.
The carbon cycle involves several processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and combustion. Through these processes, carbon moves between the atmosphere, living organisms, and the lithosphere (which includes rocks and the Earth's crust). Carbon can be stored in the form of organic matter in living organisms, organic material in soils, and as inorganic carbon in rocks such as limestone and coal.
Therefore, the correct statement is that the amount of Earth's carbon can both increase and decrease depending on factors such as human activities, volcanic eruptions, deforestation, and the natural processes of carbon cycling.