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C o2 Carbon dioxide is a chemical compound composed of one carbon and
two oxygen atoms. It is often referred to by its formula CO2. It is
present in the Earth's atmosphere at a low concentration and acts as a
greenhouse gas. In its solid state, it is called dry ice. It is a major
component of the carbon cycle.
Atmospheric carbon dioxide derives from multiple natural sources
including volcanic outgassing, the combustion of organic matter, and the
respiration processes of living aerobic organisms; man-made sources of
carbon dioxide come mainly from the burning of various fossil fuels for
power generation and transport use. It is also produced by various
microorganisms from fermentation and cellular respiration. Plants utilize
carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, using both the carbon and the
oxygen to construct carbohydrates. In addition, plants also release
oxygen to the atmosphere, which is subsequently used for respiration by
heterotrophic organisms, forming a cycle.
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