Climate scientist have observed seasonal changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration. In the Northern Hemisphere, they have measured the highest levels of carbon dioxide in the month of May. They have also measured the lowest levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide in the month of October. Hypothesize how photosynthesis can affect these changes. Consider the process of photosynthesis and it's input and outputs. Explain your answer in 3-5 sentences.

Answer 1

Photosynthesis plays a crucial role in the seasonal changes of atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere. During the growing season, which peaks in late spring to early summer, plants actively photosynthesize, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and converting it into glucose and oxygen. This leads to a decrease in atmospheric CO2 levels, which is why the lowest levels are often observed in October, following the peak of plant growth in May. As autumn approaches and plants begin to die back and decay, the rate of photosynthesis declines significantly, while decomposition and respiration processes release CO2 back into the atmosphere, resulting in higher concentrations by late fall and winter. Thus, the cyclical nature of plant growth and dormancy directly influences the seasonal fluctuations of atmospheric carbon dioxide.