The significance of the carbon cycle lies in its role in sustaining life on Earth by regulating carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere and facilitating photosynthesis and respiration. Plants absorb CO2 during photosynthesis, converting it into organic compounds, which are then utilized by animals through feeding. When organisms respire, decay, or combust, CO2 is released back into the atmosphere. This cyclical movement of carbon is essential for overall ecosystem health and climate stability, supporting both terrestrial and aquatic life.