Question

18 multiple choice
which of the following best describes a consequence of increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere?
climate change benefits agriculture by creating more stable weather patterns.
species easily adapt to new conditions, enhancing ecosystem stability.
coral bleaching occurs, endangering marine biodiversity and impacting species that rely on reefs.
coral reefs become more resilient to temperature changes, promoting marine biodiversity.

Explanation:

Increased CO₂ causes climate change (warming, ocean acidification). Stable weather for agriculture is wrong (climate change brings extreme weather). Species adapting easily is wrong (rapid changes outpace adaptation). Coral reefs becoming more resilient is wrong (warming/stress cause bleaching). Coral bleaching occurs as CO₂ - related warming/acidification stress corals, harming marine biodiversity and reef - dependent species.

Answer:

C. Coral bleaching occurs, endangering marine biodiversity and impacting species that rely on reefs.