G8_The Story of Coal and the Carbon Cycle_Approaching_04

The carbon cycle is a biogeochemical cycle. The cycle describes how carbon is recycled and reused within the environment. Carbon cycles through Earth’s spheres. These spheres include the atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, and biosphere. The carbon cycle is critical for sustaining life on Earth. So why is the burning of coal so bad? Without human intervention, the carbon exchanges between Earth’s spheres are fairly-well balanced. Unfortunately, human activity of the past 200 hundred years has affected that balance within the carbon cycle. 

This is all due to the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal. The result is a direct transfer of carbon from the geosphere into the atmosphere. The emissions are mostly in the form of carbon dioxide (CO₂). CO₂ is considered one of the greenhouse gases. The concern among scientists is that this increase in CO₂ in the atmosphere is extremely harmful. CO₂ is a gas known to absorb and retain heat. 

This will result in an increase in global temperatures over time. Other concerns with higher levels of CO₂ in the air is they may also increase ocean acidification. This occurs when CO₂ in the air dissolves directly into water. As you read more, you realize why the burning of fossil fuels may not be the best option for providing energy.   

However, you now know the importance of coal to the environment. Coal is extremely beneficial for the environment. It can sequester carbon that would otherwise be returned and recycled through the carbon cycle. The problem is not the coal itself. The problem is when humans burn the coal. This is when the stored carbon is released.

Today has been a very interesting day. You will never forget having the chance to visit a real coal mine. You are learned some fascinating things about the history of Earth. Who would have thought something over 300 million years old would play such a large role today? So maybe coal is actually great for Earth. It is the burning of coal that produces the problem.