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Multiple Choice
Which of these best describes the role of plants in the carbon-oxygen cycle?
A
They convert oxygen into carbon dioxide through cellular respiration.
B
They release carbon dioxide and absorb oxygen during photosynthesis.
C
They absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen during photosynthesis.
D
They store oxygen in their roots and do not interact with carbon dioxide.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the carbon-oxygen cycle: This cycle involves the exchange of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and oxygen (O₂) between organisms and the environment, primarily through processes like photosynthesis and cellular respiration.
Learn the role of photosynthesis: Plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide (CO₂) to produce glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂). The chemical equation for photosynthesis is:
Learn the role of cellular respiration: Plants and other organisms break down glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) to release energy, producing carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) as byproducts. The chemical equation for cellular respiration is:
Clarify the role of plants in the cycle: During photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere and release oxygen (O₂). This is the opposite of cellular respiration, where plants release CO₂ and absorb O₂.
Evaluate the options: Based on the above understanding, the correct description of the role of plants in the carbon-oxygen cycle is that they absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen during photosynthesis.