Photosynthesis and cellular respiration play an important role in the cycling of carbon among the biosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere. Provide an explanation for which letter best represents the role of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle.
A. E, because CO2 is being used by photosynthetic algae.
B. D, because CO2 from animal wastes are being released back into the atmosphere.
C. A, because CO2 being produced by plants in photosynthesis is being released into the atmosphere.
D. B, because CO2 from the atmosphere is being used in the process of photosynthesis to produce glucose.
D. B, because CO2 from the atmosphere is being used in the process of photosynthesis to produce glucose.
In photosynthesis, plants take in carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and use it, along with sunlight and water, to produce glucose (a carbohydrate) and release oxygen (O2) as a byproduct. This process helps to decrease the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere and store it in the form of organic compounds (such as glucose) within the plant. This is why letter D represents the role of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle - it shows how CO2 from the atmosphere is being utilized and transformed into organic carbon compounds.