Question

complete the sentence.
carbon moves into the atmosphere during the processes of respiration and photosynthesis.
photosynthesis and decomposition
respiration and photosynthesis
respiration and decomposition

Explanation:

• Respiration: In respiration, organisms (like the tree, the small animal, and the wolf in the diagram) break down organic compounds (such as glucose) to release energy. The chemical equation for aerobic respiration is \(C_6H_{12}O_6+6O_2

ightarrow6CO_2 + 6H_2O+\text{Energy}\). So, carbon is released as \(CO_2\) into the atmosphere.

• Decomposition: Decomposers (like fungi and bacteria) break down dead organisms (such as the remains of the wolf). During decomposition, complex organic molecules in dead matter are broken down. Carbon - containing compounds are oxidized, and \(CO_2\) is released back into the atmosphere.
• Photosynthesis: In photosynthesis (\(6CO_2+6H_2O

ightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2\)), plants (like the tree) take in \(CO_2\) from the atmosphere and convert it into organic compounds (glucose). So, it is a process that removes \(CO_2\) from the atmosphere, not one that moves carbon into the atmosphere.

Answer:

respiration and decomposition