Examine the trend of global carbon dioxide emissions from 1850 to 2009. What do you observe about the changes in carbon dioxide emissions during this period, particularly after 1950? How might these trends impact the carbon cycle?

Question

(1 point)
Responses

Carbon dioxide emissions decreased steadily after 1950, helping balance the carbon cycle.
Carbon dioxide emissions decreased steadily after 1950, helping balance the carbon cycle.

Carbon dioxide emissions remained stable between 1850 and 1950, then began to decrease rapidly.
Carbon dioxide emissions remained stable between 1850 and 1950, then began to decrease rapidly.

Carbon dioxide emissions increased slightly after 1950 but stabilized after the year 2000.
Carbon dioxide emissions increased slightly after 1950 but stabilized after the year 2000.

Carbon dioxide emissions increased sharply after 1950, likely disrupting the natural carbon cycle.

Answer 1

The trend of global carbon dioxide emissions from 1850 to 2009 shows a significant increase, particularly after 1950. Prior to 1950, emissions were relatively low and grew steadily, but after 1950, there was a sharp rise in emissions as industrialization accelerated, fossil fuel consumption increased, and global population grew.

By examining the provided trends, the most accurate observation is: Carbon dioxide emissions increased sharply after 1950, likely disrupting the natural carbon cycle.

This sharp increase in emissions has serious implications for the carbon cycle, as it can lead to elevated atmospheric CO2 levels, contributing to climate change and impacting earth systems such as weather patterns, ocean acidification, and ecosystems. The balance of the carbon cycle has been altered, as natural sinks like forests and oceans may struggle to absorb the excess CO2 being released.