Question

photosynthesis and cellular respiration are two biological processes that make a significant contribution to the carbon cycle. evaluate select the three that demonstrate the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter into and out of organisms. a photosynthesis uses carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. b photosynthesis releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. c photosynthesis returns carbon to the ground as plants die and decompose. d photosynthesis stores energy in the form of glucose (c₆h₁₂o₆). e photosynthesis provides glucose (c₆h₁₂o₆) to herbivores in the environment.

Explanation:

• Option A: Photosynthesis uses \(CO_2\) from the atmosphere (\(6CO_2 + 6H_2O

ightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6+6O_2\)), which is part of carbon cycling.

• Option C: When plants die and decompose, the carbon in glucose (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)) is returned to the ground.
• Option E: Herbivores consume plants (which have glucose from photosynthesis), so photosynthesis provides glucose to herbivores, facilitating carbon transfer.
• Option B: Photosynthesis does not release \(CO_2\) (cellular respiration does).
• Option D: Storing energy in glucose is about energy, not directly matter (carbon) cycling into and out of organisms as per the question focus.

Answer:

A. Photosynthesis uses carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
C. Photosynthesis returns carbon to the ground as plants die and decompose.
E. Photosynthesis provides glucose (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)) to herbivores in the environment.