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Multiple Choice
Which human activity would most likely decrease the amount of carbon in the atmosphere?
A
Planting large numbers of trees in deforested areas
B
Burning fossil fuels for energy production
C
Increasing automobile usage
D
Clearing forests for agriculture
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of carbon in the atmosphere: Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. Human activities can either increase or decrease the amount of CO₂ in the atmosphere.
Analyze the options provided: Each activity listed has a different impact on the carbon cycle. Consider how each activity affects the balance of carbon in the atmosphere.
Option 1: Planting large numbers of trees in deforested areas. Trees absorb CO₂ during photosynthesis, reducing the amount of carbon in the atmosphere. This activity would likely decrease atmospheric carbon levels.
Option 2: Burning fossil fuels for energy production. This releases stored carbon from fossil fuels into the atmosphere as CO₂, increasing atmospheric carbon levels.
Option 3: Clearing forests for agriculture. This removes trees that absorb CO₂ and may involve burning vegetation, which releases CO₂ into the atmosphere. This activity increases atmospheric carbon levels.