Carbon is a component of all major organic molecules in living organisms such as fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.

Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is converted into small carbon-containing organic molecules via photosynthesis in producers like plants.

Carbon-containing organic molecules are passed from producers into consumers when producers are eaten.

Combustion of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

The increased concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere contributes to global warming.

When living organisms like producers and consumers die, decomposers break down carbon-containing organic molecules in the these organisms bodies, consuming some and releasing the rest into the atmosphere.

If organic matter accumulates in areas without decomposers, the carbon they contain may become 'trapped', forming fossil fuels over millions of years.

Carbon dioxide levels fluctuate during the day as photosynthesis only occurs during daylight hours.

At night, no carbon dioxide is taken into producers but it is still released via respiration so the carbon dioxide levels in the local atmosphere increase.

Carbon dioxide levels are typically lower in summer than winter, as photosynthesis rates are higher in summer when daylight hours are longer.

1. Deforestation removes photosynthesising biomass, reducing the amount of carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere
2. Deforestation also often involves burning tree biomass, which releases more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere

Global warming reduces the amount of carbon dioxide that can dissolve in oceans, as at higher temperatures less gas can dissolve in water.

Global warming thus results in more carbon dioxide being released into the atmosphere.