Global distribution and size of major stores of carbon: lithosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, biosphere, atmosphere
Carbon sits stored in five major parts of Earth: rocks, oceans, ice, living things, and the air. Each store holds a different amount of carbon and exists in a different location on or around the planet.
Real World
The world's oceans hold roughly 38,000 GtC as dissolved CO₂ and carbonate ions, making the hydrosphere the second-largest carbon store after the lithosphere — the Pacific Ocean alone absorbs about 30% of all human-produced CO₂ emissions.
Exam Focus
Always quote approximate figures in GtC for each store — the mark scheme rewards quantified comparison, not vague terms like 'a lot'.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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