Multiple Choice
Which process removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, demonstrating the Law of Conservation of Mass?
2. Atoms & Elements
Law of Conservation of Mass
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Which of the following processes removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere?
A
Respiration
B
Combustion
C
Decomposition
D
Photosynthesis
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle: Photosynthesis is a process used by plants, algae, and some bacteria to convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy stored in glucose. During this process, carbon dioxide (CO₂) is absorbed from the atmosphere.
Identify the chemical equation for photosynthesis: The general equation for photosynthesis can be represented as:
Analyze the equation: In the photosynthesis equation, six molecules of carbon dioxide (CO₂) are used along with six molecules of water (H₂O) to produce one molecule of glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and six molecules of oxygen (O₂). This indicates that CO₂ is removed from the atmosphere during this process.
Compare with other processes: Respiration, combustion, and decomposition are processes that release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. In contrast, photosynthesis is unique in that it removes CO₂ from the atmosphere.
Conclude the analysis: Based on the understanding of these processes, photosynthesis is the correct answer as it is the process that removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
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