Oceanic Carbon Cycle

The oceanic carbon cycle involves the exchange of carbon between the atmosphere and the ocean. CO₂ from the air dissolves into seawater, where some of it is used by marine organisms for growth. When these organisms die, they sink and store carbon in deep ocean layers, effectively removing it from the atmosphere. Conversely, upwelling and other processes can bring carbon-rich water back to the surface, releasing CO₂. This cycle helps regulate Earth's climate by controlling atmospheric carbon levels, acting as a large natural reservoir that absorbs, stores, and releases carbon over time.