To determine which option is most likely to increase the amount of a trace gas in the atmosphere, we need to consider the activities or processes mentioned in each option and their potential impact on trace gases, which include gases like carbon dioxide, water vapor, and methane.
A. A pine cone releases the protected seeds inside after it is exposed to intense heat.
- Intense heat can cause some organic material to combust, potentially leading to the release of carbon dioxide. However, this scenario primarily involves seed release rather than generating trace gases.
B. A hydroelectric dam increases the amount of water processed into energy after a flood.
- Hydroelectric power reduces the use of fossil fuels, which may lower greenhouse gas emissions, rather than increasing trace gases.
C. A company refining uranium ore is powered by natural gas.
- Natural gas combustion releases carbon dioxide and potentially methane, which are both trace gases. This option suggests an increase in the amount of a trace gas due to energy production.
D. A bacterium releases oxygen gas during photosynthesis.
- While this option mentions bacteria releasing oxygen, it does not imply an increase in trace gases like carbon dioxide or methane, so it is less relevant.
Based on this analysis, the option most likely to increase the amount of a trace gas in the atmosphere is:
C. A company refining uranium ore is powered by natural gas.
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