The relationship between the water cycle and carbon cycle in the atmosphere
The water cycle and carbon cycle affect each other through the atmosphere. Changes in one cycle — such as more carbon dioxide warming the air — alter how water moves around the planet.
Real World
During the 2015–16 El Niño, higher sea-surface temperatures in the Pacific boosted evaporation and atmospheric water vapour while also reducing ocean CO₂ uptake, temporarily raising the rate of atmospheric CO₂ increase to 3.4 ppm — the highest annual jump on record at the time.
Exam Focus
Always explain the mechanism linking the two cycles — state the cause, the process, and the atmospheric effect in sequence.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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