Which of the following processes removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere?

• A. Respiration
• B. Combustion
• C. Decomposition
• D. Photosynthesis

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle: Photosynthesis is a process used by plants, algae, and some bacteria to convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy stored in glucose. During this process, carbon dioxide (CO₂) is absorbed from the atmosphere.
2. Identify the chemical equation for photosynthesis: The general equation for photosynthesis can be represented as: ${6 \mathrm{CO} 2}_{}+{6 H 2O}_{} \to {C 6 H \mathrm{12} O 6}_{}+{6 O 2}_{}$
3. Analyze the equation: In the photosynthesis equation, six molecules of carbon dioxide (CO₂) are used along with six molecules of water (H₂O) to produce one molecule of glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and six molecules of oxygen (O₂). This indicates that CO₂ is removed from the atmosphere during this process.
4. Compare with other processes: Respiration, combustion, and decomposition are processes that release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. In contrast, photosynthesis is unique in that it removes CO₂ from the atmosphere.
5. Conclude the analysis: Based on the understanding of these processes, photosynthesis is the correct answer as it is the process that removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.