Question

How is the majority of carbon transferred from plants and animals to the soil?
(1 point)

Carbon dioxide from plant and animal respiration dissolves into the soil.

Carbon atoms from plant and animal waste dissolve into the soil.

The decay of dead organisms releases carbon dioxide from their bodies into
the soil.

The decay of dead organisms releases some carbon atoms from their bodies
into the soil.

Answer 1

The decay of dead organisms releases some carbon atoms from their bodies into the soil.

Decomposers break down plant and animal remains; some carbon is respired as CO2 to the atmosphere, but much is incorporated into soil organic matter (humus).