This model of the carbon cycle shows the continuous movement of carbon atoms between the biosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere. Some processes store carbon while others release it. Deforestation, the clearing or thinning of forests by humans, has. significant impact on the carbon cycle. What is a likely consequence of deforestation? Responses A decreased land carbondecreased land carbon B decreased ocean carbondecreased ocean carbon C decreased atmospheric carbondecreased atmospheric carbon D increased atmospheric carbon
D) increased atmospheric carbon
Deforestation can lead to an increase in atmospheric carbon because trees store carbon in their biomass. When trees are cut down or burned, the stored carbon is released back into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide. This can contribute to the greenhouse effect and global warming.