Question
Why does Earth's atmosphere contain a relatively small amount of carbon dioxide compared to other carbon reservoirs like the ocean and rocks?
(1 point)
Responses
The atmosphere can't hold as much CO2 because it is too small
The atmosphere can't hold as much CO2 because it is too small
Most atmospheric CO2 dissolves into the ocean due to ocean circulation patterns
Most atmospheric CO2 dissolves into the ocean due to ocean circulation patterns
Carbon dioxide molecules are too heavy to stay in the air for long periods
(1 point)
Responses
The atmosphere can't hold as much CO2 because it is too small
The atmosphere can't hold as much CO2 because it is too small
Most atmospheric CO2 dissolves into the ocean due to ocean circulation patterns
Most atmospheric CO2 dissolves into the ocean due to ocean circulation patterns
Carbon dioxide molecules are too heavy to stay in the air for long periods
Answers
GPT-4o mini
The correct response is: **Most atmospheric CO2 dissolves into the ocean due to ocean circulation patterns.**
The Earth's atmosphere contains a relatively small amount of carbon dioxide compared to other carbon reservoirs because a significant portion of the CO2 in the atmosphere is absorbed by the oceans. The oceans act as a major carbon sink, where CO2 can dissolve in water and be utilized in various chemical processes, contributing to the lower concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere.
The Earth's atmosphere contains a relatively small amount of carbon dioxide compared to other carbon reservoirs because a significant portion of the CO2 in the atmosphere is absorbed by the oceans. The oceans act as a major carbon sink, where CO2 can dissolve in water and be utilized in various chemical processes, contributing to the lower concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere.