Multiple Choice
In a simple grassland food web consisting of grass, grasshoppers, frogs, and hawks, which organism is a primary consumer?
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48. Ecology
Introduction to Ecology
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How does deforestation most directly affect the carbon cycle?
A
It causes an increase in oceanic carbon sequestration.
B
It leads to a decrease in fossil fuel emissions.
C
It decreases the amount of carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere by reducing photosynthesis.
D
It increases the rate of nitrogen fixation in the soil.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the carbon cycle: The carbon cycle involves the movement of carbon through the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere. Photosynthesis plays a key role in removing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere as plants absorb CO₂ to produce glucose and oxygen.
Recognize the role of forests in the carbon cycle: Forests act as carbon sinks because trees and plants absorb CO₂ during photosynthesis. Deforestation reduces the number of trees available to perform this function, directly impacting the carbon cycle.
Analyze the impact of deforestation: When forests are cleared, the amount of CO₂ removed from the atmosphere decreases because there are fewer plants to perform photosynthesis. This leads to higher levels of CO₂ in the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.
Evaluate the incorrect options: Deforestation does not directly increase oceanic carbon sequestration, decrease fossil fuel emissions, or increase nitrogen fixation in the soil. These processes are unrelated or indirectly affected by deforestation.
Conclude the correct answer: The most direct effect of deforestation on the carbon cycle is the reduction in photosynthesis, which decreases the amount of CO₂ removed from the atmosphere.
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