How is the majority of carbon transferred from plants and animals to the soil? (1 point)

Responses

The decay of dead organisms releases some carbon atoms from their bodies into the soil.
The decay of dead organisms releases some carbon atoms from their bodies into the soil.

The decay of dead organisms releases carbon dioxide from their bodies into the soil.
The decay of dead organisms releases carbon dioxide from their bodies into the soil.

Carbon dioxide from plant and animal respiration dissolves into the soil.
Carbon dioxide from plant and animal respiration dissolves into the soil.

Carbon atoms from plant and animal waste dissolve into the soil.
please answer it

The correct response is: The decay of dead organisms releases some carbon atoms from their bodies into the soil.

When plants and animals die, their bodies undergo decomposition, which is the breakdown of organic matter by bacteria, fungi, and other decomposers. During this process, organic compounds in the bodies of plants and animals are broken down, releasing some carbon atoms. These carbon atoms become part of the soil, contributing to its carbon content.

To find this answer, you can consider the natural cycle of carbon in ecosystems. When plants and animals die, their remains are broken down by decomposers, such as bacteria and fungi. This decomposition process releases carbon atoms from the organic compounds in the bodies of plants and animals. These carbon atoms then become part of the soil. Understanding the natural processes of the carbon cycle and the role of decomposition in transferring carbon to the soil can help you arrive at the correct answer.