Question

exit ticket ~ 1 min
volcanic eruptions add carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. which of the following also adds carbon dioxide directly to the atmosphere?
a. burning a forest
b. forming fossil fuels
c. evaporation of a puddle
d. erosion of igneous rocks

Explanation:

• Burning a forest (A) releases carbon dioxide directly into the atmosphere as the organic matter (which contains carbon) in the trees and plants is combusted.
• Forming fossil fuels (B) involves the long - term burial and transformation of organic matter under high pressure and temperature, sequestering carbon rather than adding it to the atmosphere.
• Evaporation of a puddle (C) is a physical change of water from liquid to gas (water vapor), and it does not involve carbon dioxide.
• Erosion of igneous rocks (D) is a physical and chemical weathering process that does not release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Answer:

A. burning a forest