Researchers determine the population of phytoplankton in an area of the ocean is significantly decreased compared to the previous year. What can they conclude from this observation?

Question

(1 point)
• The plankton as a carbon sink and as a carbon source in the area will be less than expected.
The plankton as a carbon sink will be less than expected, but the plankton as a carbon source O will be greater than expected.
The plankton as a carbon sink will be greater than expected, but the plankton as a carbon source will be less than expected.
• The plankton as a carbon sink and as a carbon source in the area will be greater than expected.

Answer 1

The most appropriate conclusion based on the significant decrease in phytoplankton population compared to the previous year is:

• The plankton as a carbon sink will be less than expected, but the plankton as a carbon source will be greater than expected.

This conclusion is drawn from the fact that phytoplankton play a crucial role in sequestering carbon dioxide through photosynthesis (acting as a carbon sink), and a decrease in their population would result in reduced carbon sequestration. At the same time, decaying phytoplankton can release carbon back into the atmosphere or ocean, which would contribute to increased carbon sources.