carbon cycle

carbon cycle definition - medical

carbon cycle

noun
  1. The combined processes, including photosynthesis, decomposition, and respiration, by which carbon as a component of various compounds cycles between its major reservoirs—the atmosphere, oceans, and living organisms. Also called carbon dioxide cycle.
  2. See carbon-nitrogen cycle.

The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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