Question

Microorganisms in the soil decompose waste as a source of energy for growth and release carbon dioxide (CO2). Scientists have observed that as soil temperatures increase (up to 25°C), the amount of CO2 released into the atmosphere from the soil increases. Which explanation about how environmental factors affect the growth of microorganisms is BEST supported by this observation? Group of answer choices An increase in soil temperature decreases microorganism growth because the rate of decomposition decreases. An increase in soil temperature increases microorganism growth because the rate of decomposition increases. An increase in the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere from the soil increases microorganism growth because the rate of decomposition decreases. An increase in the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere from the soil decreases microorganism growth because the rate of decomposition increases.

Answer 1

An increase in soil temperature increases microorganism growth because the rate of decomposition increases.

Step-by-step explanation:

An increase in soil temperature increases microbial activities and the activity of extracellular enzymes that degrade polymeric organic matter within the soil. An increase in the soil microbial activities means that the decomposition rate and microorganism growth would increase. Increase in the activity of extracellular enzymes that degrade polymeric organic matter within the soil also means that more carbon dioxide would be produced and released into the atmosphere.