Processes in the Carbon Cycle and Changes over Time

What is the primary role of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle?

• To convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen

• To release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere

• To break down organic matter

• To chemically weather rocks

Which factor increases the rate of photosynthesis in phytoplankton?

• Decreased solar radiation

• Colder temperatures

• Increased solar radiation

• Lower CO2 levels

What happens to phytoplankton blooms when CO2 levels increase?

• They decrease in size

• They remain the same

• They increase in size

• They become extinct

What is formed when carbon dioxide dissolves in rainwater?

• Hydrochloric acid

• Carbonic acid

• Nitric acid

• Sulfuric acid

What is a consequence of increased carbonic acid in rainwater?

• Decreased ocean acidity

• Increased ocean acidity

• Increased rock formation

• Decreased CO2 levels

How does ocean acidification affect marine life?

• It increases their size

• It weakens their shells

• It has no effect

• It strengthens their shells

What is the main purpose of respiration in the carbon cycle?

• To form carbonic acid

• To absorb sunlight

• To release energy and carbon dioxide

• To create glucose

What is the result of chemical weathering on rocks like limestone?

• No change to the rocks

• Formation of new rocks

• Chemical breakdown of rocks

• Increase in rock size

What role do tree roots play in biological weathering?

• They have no effect on rocks

• They physically break rocks

• They chemically weather rocks

• They prevent weathering

What conditions do decomposers like fungi and bacteria prefer?

• Warm and humid

• Warm and dry

• Cold and dry

• Cold and humid