Question

multiple choice
listen
what is the role of cellular respiration in the carbon cycle?
a cellular respiration removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
b cellular respiration removes carbon dioxide from the hydrosphere.
c cellular respiration adds carbon dioxide to plants and animals.
d cellular respiration adds carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.

Explanation:

Cellular respiration is a process where organisms break down glucose to release energy. The chemical equation for cellular respiration is \(C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2
ightarrow6CO_2 + 6H_2O+\text{Energy}\). This process produces carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)) as a by - product. The carbon dioxide is then released into the atmosphere.

Let's analyze each option:

• Option A: Photosynthesis (not cellular respiration) removes \(CO_2\) from the atmosphere.
• Option B: Cellular respiration does not remove \(CO_2\) from the hydrosphere.
• Option C: Cellular respiration does not add \(CO_2\) to plants and animals. Plants and animals take in \(O_2\) for cellular respiration.
• Option D: As per the equation of cellular respiration, \(CO_2\) is released (added) to the atmosphere.

Answer:

D. Cellular respiration adds carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.