How does combustion help carbon to return to the atmosphere?

Combustion is a chemical reaction that occurs when a fuel reacts with oxygen, producing heat and light. During this process, carbon-based fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas release carbon dioxide (CO2) as a byproduct, returning carbon to the atmosphere. This CO2 can then contribute to the greenhouse effect, influencing global temperatures and climate. Thus, combustion plays a significant role in the carbon cycle by facilitating the release of carbon that was previously stored in fossil fuels.