Which of the following adds/add carbon dioxide to the carbon cycle on the planet Earth?
- Volcanic action
- Respiration
- Photosynthesis
- Decay of organic matter
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2014 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1, 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (c)
Explanation:
- The Process of photosynthesis takes up Carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Hence photosynthesis does not add carbon dioxide to the carbon cycle. Hence, Statement 3 is NOT correct.
- Volcanic activity contributes to the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
- Respiration is the process of taking in oxygen from the external environment and releasing carbon dioxide, which is the opposite of photosynthesis.
- Decomposition, which is the breakdown of organic matter, also releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.