How is the majority of carbon transferred from plants and animals to the soil? (1 point)
A) Carbon dioxide from plant and animal respiration dissolves into the soil.
B) The decay of dead organisms releases carbon dioxide from their bodies into the soil.
C) The decay of dead organisms releases some carbon atoms from their bodies into the soil.
D) Carbon atoms from plant and animal waste dissolve into the soil.
C) The decay of dead organisms releases some carbon atoms from their bodies into the soil.
B) The decay of dead organisms releases carbon dioxide from their bodies into the soil.
To determine the correct answer, let's analyze each option:
A) Carbon dioxide from plant and animal respiration dissolves into the soil.
Respiration is the process where organisms release carbon dioxide as a byproduct. While some of this carbon dioxide can dissolve into the soil, it is not the primary way carbon is transferred from plants and animals to the soil.
B) The decay of dead organisms releases carbon dioxide from their bodies into the soil.
This option is partially correct. When organisms die and decay, the process releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. However, carbon dioxide is released into the air rather than directly into the soil.
C) The decay of dead organisms releases some carbon atoms from their bodies into the soil.
This option is also partially correct. When organisms decay, some carbon atoms are released into the soil. However, this is not the primary way carbon is transferred.
D) Carbon atoms from plant and animal waste dissolve into the soil.
This option is correct. When plants and animals produce waste, such as leaves, fallen fruits, or manure, the carbon atoms present in these waste materials can dissolve or decompose into the soil. This is the primary way carbon is transferred from plants and animals to the soil.
Therefore, the correct answer is D) Carbon atoms from plant and animal waste dissolve into the soil.