Which of the following best explains how the destruction of forests affects atmospheric levels of carbon?
A
It has no significant effect on atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.
B
It increases atmospheric oxygen because more carbon is released from the soil.
C
It increases atmospheric carbon dioxide because fewer trees are available to absorb CO\(_2\) during photosynthesis.
D
It decreases atmospheric carbon dioxide because decaying wood absorbs CO\(_2\) from the air.
0 댓글
검증된 단계별 안내
1
Understand the role of forests in the carbon cycle: Forests act as carbon sinks, meaning they absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere during photosynthesis. This process helps regulate atmospheric CO₂ levels.
Recall the process of photosynthesis: During photosynthesis, plants use sunlight, water, and CO₂ to produce glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂). The equation for photosynthesis is: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂.
Consider the impact of deforestation: When forests are destroyed, fewer trees are available to perform photosynthesis. This reduces the amount of CO₂ being absorbed from the atmosphere, leading to an increase in atmospheric CO₂ levels.
Account for additional carbon release: The destruction of forests often involves burning or decomposition of wood, which releases stored carbon back into the atmosphere as CO₂, further increasing atmospheric CO₂ levels.
Evaluate the provided options: The correct explanation is that the destruction of forests increases atmospheric CO₂ because fewer trees are available to absorb CO₂ during photosynthesis. This aligns with the role of forests in the carbon cycle and the consequences of deforestation.