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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes a similarity between the carbon cycle and the water cycle?
A
Both cycles only occur in aquatic ecosystems.
B
Both cycles are driven exclusively by volcanic activity.
C
Both cycles require sunlight only during nighttime.
D
Both involve the movement of essential molecules between living organisms and the environment.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the carbon cycle and the water cycle. The carbon cycle involves the movement of carbon atoms through the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere, while the water cycle involves the movement of water molecules through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and infiltration.
Step 2: Recognize that both cycles are essential for life and involve interactions between living organisms and the environment. For example, in the carbon cycle, plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, and animals release carbon dioxide during respiration. In the water cycle, organisms depend on water for hydration and metabolic processes.
Step 3: Eliminate incorrect options by analyzing their claims. The statement 'Both cycles only occur in aquatic ecosystems' is incorrect because both cycles occur in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The statement 'Both cycles are driven exclusively by volcanic activity' is incorrect because volcanic activity is not the sole driver of either cycle. The statement 'Both cycles require sunlight only during nighttime' is incorrect because sunlight is primarily involved during the daytime in processes like photosynthesis and evaporation.
Step 4: Focus on the correct option: 'Both involve the movement of essential molecules between living organisms and the environment.' This accurately describes the similarity between the two cycles, as both involve the transfer of molecules (carbon and water) that are vital for life.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer highlights the interconnectedness of living organisms and their environment, emphasizing the importance of these cycles in maintaining ecological balance and supporting life processes.