To determine which option is most likely to increase the amount of a trace gas in the atmosphere, we need to look at activities that are directly related to the production or emission of trace gases such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and methane.
Let's analyze each option:
A. A pine cone releases the protected seeds inside after it is exposed to intense heat.
- This activity is not directly related to increasing trace gas concentrations.
B. A hydroelectric dam increases the amount of water processed into energy after a flood.
- Hydroelectric power generation mainly involves water, not trace gases.
C. A company refining uranium ore is powered by natural gas.
- The use of natural gas can produce trace gases, specifically carbon dioxide, as a byproduct of combustion.
D. A bacterium releases oxygen gas during photosynthesis.
- While this process does produce oxygen, it does not affect trace gas concentrations like carbon dioxide or methane.
The most likely option to increase the amount of a trace gas in the atmosphere is:
C. A company refining uranium ore is powered by natural gas.
This is because the combustion of natural gas can release carbon dioxide, a significant trace gas.
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