Production of Carbon

The primitive Earth was not rich in carbon. However, during the long evolutionary process, carbon was captured by the Earth in the form of dust particles and celestial bodies, becoming a part of the Earth. Carbon is the basis of the Earth's materials and life. As an important element, it participates in the evolution of various circles of the Earth system, so the Earth is also called “carbon-based planet”. The production of carbon originates from the fusion process of initial elements such as hydrogen and helium in the universe. For example, three helium nuclei generate one carbon atom through the fusion process and release energy. In this chapter, “carbon production” refers to the release of organic carbon. This carbon, originally fixed in the lithosphere through geological processes, is released into the atmosphere due to human activities. Such activities disrupt the Earth's natural carbon cycle's stability and contribute to climate change.