Ecology SOL Unit 3.3 - Carbon Cycle

What percentage of the human body is made up of carbon?

• 10%

• 18%

• 25%

• 30%

Answer explanation

Carbon makes up about 18% of the human body by weight, making it a crucial element for organic molecules and biological processes. Therefore, the correct answer is 18%.

What process do plants use to take carbon out of the atmosphere?

• Respiration

• Photosynthesis

• Combustion

• Decay

Answer explanation

Plants use photosynthesis to take carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. During this process, they convert carbon dioxide and sunlight into glucose and oxygen, effectively removing carbon from the air.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

What do plants convert carbon dioxide and water, in the presence of sunlight, into during photosynthesis?

• Oxygen and glucose

• Water and oxygen

• Nitrogen and glucose

• Hydrogen and oxygen

Answer explanation

During photosynthesis, plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Thus, the correct answer is oxygen and glucose.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

What do sea organisms use calcium carbonate for?

• To make their shells

• To produce energy

• To breathe

• To grow plants

Answer explanation

Sea organisms use calcium carbonate primarily to make their shells, providing structure and protection. This is essential for many marine species, including mollusks and corals.

What is the symbol for carbon in the periodic table?

• Ca

• C

• Co

• Cr

Answer explanation

The symbol for carbon in the periodic table is 'C'. Other options like Ca (calcium), Co (cobalt), and Cr (chromium) represent different elements, making 'C' the correct choice for carbon.

Why is carbon needed in the atmosphere?

• To keep the Earth warm

• To make the sky blue

• To produce oxygen

• To create rain

Answer explanation

Carbon is essential in the atmosphere as it contributes to the greenhouse effect, trapping heat and keeping the Earth warm. This is crucial for maintaining a stable climate and supporting life.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

Which activity releases carbon into the air?

• Planting trees

• Burning fossil fuels

• Recycling

Answer explanation

Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. In contrast, planting trees absorbs carbon, and recycling reduces emissions.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

NGSS.MS-ESS3-5

Which TWO of the following are ways humans alter the Carbon Cycle Balance?

• By conserving energy

• By burning fossil fuels

• By using electric cars

• By deforestation

Answer explanation

Humans alter the Carbon Cycle by burning fossil fuels, which releases CO2, and by deforestation, which reduces carbon storage in trees. Both actions increase atmospheric carbon levels, disrupting the balance.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-3

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

NGSS.MS-ESS3-5

What is the role of plants in the carbon cycle?

• They release carbon into the air for photosynthesis.

• They take up carbon from the atmosphere for photosynthesis.

• They have no role in the carbon cycle.

Answer explanation

Plants play a crucial role in the carbon cycle by taking up carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, converting it into organic matter, and releasing oxygen. This process helps regulate atmospheric carbon levels.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

What is majorly released into the air when fossil fuels are burned?

• Oxygen in the form iron oxide

• Carbon in the form of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide

• Nitrogen in the form of cyanides and ammonium ions

• Hydrogen in the form of methane and hydrogen peroxide

Answer explanation

When fossil fuels are burned, they primarily release carbon in the form of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, contributing to air pollution and climate change. The other options do not accurately represent the emissions from fossil fuel combustion.