Matter is constantly cycled between living and nonliving parts of the environment. Processes like photosynthesis and respiration allow the carbon cycle to regenerate needed substances by recycling Earth's atoms. A diagram of the carbon cycle is shown. Each arrow represents a process in the cycle. Which explanation best describes the process that occurs at the arrow marked B?
Without the diagram, it is difficult to determine the exact process that occurs at the arrow marked B in the carbon cycle. However, based on the information provided, we can make an educated guess.
The carbon cycle involves the movement of carbon atoms between the living and nonliving parts of the environment. Processes such as photosynthesis and respiration play a key role in this cycle.
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants and some other organisms convert carbon dioxide (CO2) and sunlight into glucose (a carbohydrate) and oxygen. This process occurs in the presence of chlorophyll in the plants' cells.
Respiration, on the other hand, is the process by which organisms break down glucose (or other carbohydrates) to release energy. This process occurs in cells and requires oxygen. During respiration, carbon dioxide is released as a byproduct.
Based on this information, one possible explanation for the process occurring at the arrow marked B is respiration. This would represent the release of carbon dioxide back into the environment from living organisms as a byproduct of their metabolic activities.