The document discusses the carbon cycle, detailing how carbon is exchanged among the biosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere. It explains the formation of coal from ancient vegetation, the production of petroleum from decomposed organisms, and the role of carbonates in water and shells. Additionally, it highlights the processes of photosynthesis and respiration that contribute to the cycling of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and notes the increase in atmospheric CO2 levels since the industrial revolution due to fossil fuel burning.