Band 9: A cycle diagram is a variation on the process diagram in which the process repeats itself. So it's a good idea to make that point in your answer. The diagram below illustrates the carbon cycle in nature. Write a 150-word description of this diagram for a university lecturer.

The diagram illustrates the carbon cycle in nature, showing how carbon continuously circulates between the atmosphere, living organisms, and the Earth.

Overall, it is a cyclical process driven mainly by sunlight, in which carbon is exchanged through several natural and human activities.

First, plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, using sunlight to produce organic carbon. This carbon then enters the food chain when animals consume plants. Both plants and animals release carbon dioxide back into the air through respiration.

In addition, when plants and animals die, their remains are broken down by decay organisms. This process returns carbon to the soil, while some of it is stored over long periods and eventually forms fossil fuels. These fuels, along with natural processes, release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere when burned or through emissions from factories and vehicles.

Finally, some atmospheric carbon dioxide is absorbed by oceans, completing and maintaining the continuous carbon cycle.