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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a primary way humans impact the carbon cycle?
A
Burning fossil fuels, which releases additional CO$_2$ into the atmosphere
B
Increasing the rate of photosynthesis in natural forests
C
Decreasing volcanic activity worldwide
D
Reducing the amount of carbon stored in the oceans
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the carbon cycle: The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon moves through the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere. It includes processes like photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and combustion.
Identify human activities that impact the carbon cycle: Humans influence the carbon cycle primarily through activities that release or alter the balance of carbon in the atmosphere, such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes.
Analyze the options provided: Evaluate each option to determine its relevance to human impact on the carbon cycle. For example, burning fossil fuels directly releases CO$_2$ into the atmosphere, which is a significant human activity affecting the cycle.
Eliminate incorrect options: Increasing the rate of photosynthesis in natural forests is not a primary human activity, nor is decreasing volcanic activity (which is a natural process). Reducing the amount of carbon stored in oceans is not a direct human activity either.
Conclude with the correct answer: Burning fossil fuels is the primary way humans impact the carbon cycle, as it releases additional CO$_2$ into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change and altering the natural balance of the cycle.