To calculate the overall carbon flux in the atmosphere, we can use the following equation:
\[ \text{Net Carbon Flux} = \text{Carbon entering the atmosphere} - \text{Carbon leaving the atmosphere} \]
From the information you provided:
- Carbon entering the atmosphere through natural processes = 211.6 GtC/yr
- Carbon leaving the atmosphere through natural processes = 213.8 GtC/yr
- Carbon released by burning fossil fuels = 5.5 GtC/yr
Now, we add the carbon released by burning fossil fuels to the amount entering the atmosphere:
\[ \text{Total entering} = 211.6 , \text{GtC/yr} + 5.5 , \text{GtC/yr} = 217.1 , \text{GtC/yr} \]
Now, we calculate the net carbon flux:
\[ \text{Net Carbon Flux} = 217.1 , \text{GtC/yr} - 213.8 , \text{GtC/yr} \]
\[ \text{Net Carbon Flux} = 3.3 , \text{GtC/yr} \]
Since the net carbon flux is positive, it indicates that carbon is increasing in the atmosphere. Therefore, the correct response is:
3.3 GtC/yr into the atmosphere.