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Select each correct answer.

Examine the diagram of the carbon cycle shown above. Through which of the following processes is carbon returned to the atmosphere?
burning of fossil fuels
photosynthesis
decomposition of organic waste
respiration

1 answer

In the carbon cycle, carbon is returned to the atmosphere through the following processes:

  1. Burning of fossil fuels - This process releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
  2. Decomposition of organic waste - Decomposers break down organic matter, releasing carbon dioxide during the process.
  3. Respiration - Animals and plants release carbon dioxide as a byproduct of respiration.

Photosynthesis, on the other hand, is the process where plants take in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to produce oxygen and glucose, so it does not return carbon to the atmosphere.

Therefore, the correct answers are:

  • Burning of fossil fuels
  • Decomposition of organic waste
  • Respiration