Question

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

Answer 1

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

Reason: Fewer phytoplankton means less photosynthesis (so reduced CO2 uptake/sink) and also less respiration/decomposition from living plankton (so reduced CO2 release/source).