How is the majority of carbon transferred from plants and animals to the soil? (1 point)
• Carbon dioxide from plant and animal respiration dissolves into the soil.
• The decay of dead organisms releases carbon dioxide from their bodies into the soil.
• The decay of dead organisms releases some carbon atoms from their bodies into the soil.
• Carbon atoms from plant and animal waste dissolve into the soil.
• The decay of dead organisms releases some carbon atoms from their bodies into the soil.
The majority of carbon is transferred from plants and animals to the soil through the decay of dead organisms, specifically through the release of carbon dioxide. When plants and animals die, their bodies decompose, and during that process, carbon is released in the form of carbon dioxide. This decomposition occurs through the action of decomposers like bacteria and fungi. As these decomposers break down the organic matter, carbon dioxide is released into the soil. Therefore, the correct answer is: "The decay of dead organisms releases carbon dioxide from their bodies into the soil."
The majority of carbon is transferred from plants and animals to the soil through the decay of dead organisms, which releases carbon dioxide from their bodies into the soil.
