Homonym: CO₂ (Gas)
CO₂, or carbon dioxide, is a colorless gas that is naturally present in Earth's atmosphere. It is composed of one carbon atom and two oxygen atoms. CO₂ is produced by various natural processes, such as respiration in animals and plants, as well as through human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation.
This gas plays a crucial role in the carbon cycle, which is essential for maintaining life on Earth. Plants absorb CO₂ during photosynthesis, using it to produce oxygen and glucose. Additionally, CO₂ is a significant greenhouse gas, contributing to climate change by trapping heat in the atmosphere.