Question

Which of the following are ways that carbon moves through the biosphere?

a. Plants release carbon into the air as a by-product of photosynthesis.
b. Animals breathe out carbon dioxide, which is used by plants.
c. Dead animals contain carbon and this carbon collects as fossil fuels.

Answer 1

Carbon moves through the biosphere through photosynthesis, respiration, and decomposition.

Step-by-step explanation:

Three ways carbon moves through the biosphere are:

1. Plants take in carbon dioxide during photosynthesis to produce glucose and oxygen. This carbon becomes part of the plant's biomass.
2. Animals breathe out carbon dioxide as a waste product of respiration. This carbon dioxide is then used by plants during photosynthesis.
3. Dead animals and plants decompose and release carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere. Some of this carbon can also be stored in the form of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas.

Overall, carbon moves through the biosphere in a cycle known as the carbon cycle. This cycle involves the exchange of carbon between the atmosphere, plants, animals, and carbon reservoirs like fossil fuels.