Question

The carbon cycle is a complex series of processes through which all of the carbon atoms on Earth move through the planet's organisms, atmosphere, ocean, and solid rock.


As demonstrated by the carbon cycle, matter on Earth is generally
A.
created and destroyed by the basic life processes of organisms.
B.
released into space once it reaches the atmosphere.
C.
absorbed into the Earth's core where it can no longer be used.
D.
recycled continually through the spheres of the Earth.

Answer 1

D.

The carbon cycle shows that carbon atoms move repeatedly among the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere—i.e., matter is continually recycled on Earth. (They are not created/destroyed by organisms, lost to space, or permanently sunk into the core.)