In nature, how is carbonic acid formed from atmospheric carbon dioxide?

• A. By reacting carbon dioxide with water: $C_{\mathrm{O}}2+H_{2}O\to H_2{C}_{\mathrm{O}}3$
• B. By dissolving $C_2$ in water to form $H_2{C}_2$
• C. By reacting carbon monoxide with water: $CO+H_{2}O\to H_2{C}_{\mathrm{O}}3$
• D. By reacting methane with oxygen to form carbonic acid directly: $C{H}_4+2O_2\to H_2{C}_{\mathrm{O}}3$

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the chemical species involved in the formation of carbonic acid in nature. Carbonic acid is formed when carbon dioxide (CO\_2) interacts with water (H\_2O).
2. Write the balanced chemical equation representing the reaction between carbon dioxide and water to form carbonic acid (H\_2CO\_3): \[CO\_2 + H\_2O \rightarrow H\_2CO\_3\]
3. Understand that this reaction occurs when atmospheric CO\_2 dissolves in water, such as in rainwater or natural bodies of water, leading to the formation of carbonic acid.
4. Recognize that this process is a key part of the carbon cycle and contributes to the acidity of natural waters, influencing processes like weathering and buffering.
5. Note that other options involving carbon monoxide, methane, or simply dissolving CO\_2 without reaction do not correctly describe the natural formation of carbonic acid.