Which of the following adds/add carbon dioxide to the carbon cycle on the planet Earth?
- 1. Volcanic action
- 2. Respiration
- 3. Photosynthesis
- 4. Decay of organic matter
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1 and 3 only
2 only
1, 2 and 4 only
1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer is Right!
Answer is Wrong!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2014
Volcanic action, respiration, and decay of organic matter all release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, thus adding to the carbon cycle.Volcanic eruptions release gases, including CO2, from the Earth’s interior. Respiration is the process by which living organisms convert organic matter into energy, releasing CO2 as a byproduct. Decomposers break down dead organic matter, releasing CO2 through respiration and decomposition processes. Photosynthesis, however, is the process by which plants and other organisms use sunlight, water, and CO2 to create energy-rich organic molecules, thus *removing* CO2 from the atmosphere.