Question

maple trees lose their leaves in the fall. which part of the carbon cycle occurs next?
a. photosynthesis
b. decomposition
d. transpiration
e. sequestration

Explanation:

1. Analyze each option:

• Option A: Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use carbon dioxide to make glucose, but it requires leaves (with chloroplasts) and is more active in growing seasons, not after leaves fall. So A is incorrect.
• Option B: Decomposition occurs when organic matter (like fallen leaves) is broken down by decomposers (bacteria, fungi). After maple trees lose their leaves, the fallen leaves will be decomposed, and carbon in the leaves will be released back into the soil or atmosphere as part of the carbon cycle. This makes B a valid next step.
• Option D: Transpiration is the loss of water vapor from plant leaves, which is not related to the carbon cycle process after leaves fall (and leaves are the main site of transpiration in plants). So D is incorrect.
• Option E: Sequestration is the long - term storage of carbon, like in fossil fuels or deep ocean. Fallen leaves being decomposed is not sequestration. So E is incorrect.

Answer:

B. decomposition