Researchers determine the population of phytoplankton in an area of the ocean is significantly decreased compared to the previous year. What can they conclude from this observation?(1 point)

Question

Responses

The plankton as a carbon sink and as a carbon source in the area will be less than expected.
The plankton as a carbon sink and as a carbon source in the area will be less than expected.

The plankton as a carbon sink will be less than expected, but the plankton as a carbon source will be greater than expected.
The plankton as a carbon sink will be less than expected, but the plankton as a carbon source will be greater than expected.

The plankton as a carbon sink and as a carbon source in the area will be greater than expected.
The plankton as a carbon sink and as a carbon source in the area will be greater than expected.

The plankton as a carbon sink will be greater than expected, but the plankton as a carbon source will be less than expected.

Answer 1

The correct conclusion from the observation that the population of phytoplankton has significantly decreased compared to the previous year is:

The plankton as a carbon sink and as a carbon source in the area will be less than expected.

This is because phytoplankton play a crucial role in both absorbing carbon dioxide during photosynthesis (acting as a carbon sink) and in decomposing organic matter (acting as a carbon source). A decrease in phytoplankton population would lead to a reduction in both of these functions.