Soil carbon cycling is the process by which carbon is transferred between soil, plants, and the atmosphere. This cycling involves the decomposition of organic matter in the soil, the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere through respiration by soil microbes and plant roots, and the sequestration of carbon through the formation of soil organic matter. Understanding soil carbon cycling is important for studying the global carbon cycle, as soil is a significant reservoir of carbon and plays a key role in regulating atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. Researchers in this field study the factors that influence soil carbon storage and release, such as temperature, moisture, nutrient availability, and land management practices. They also investigate the potential impacts of climate change and land use changes on soil carbon dynamics.