Which process releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere?

Prepare for the Virginia 7th Grade Science SOL Test. Incorporate flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and detailed explanations. Ensure your success on the exam!

Multiple Choice

Which process releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere?

Explanation:
Respiration is the process that releases carbon dioxide as a waste product of cellular energy production. In cellular respiration, cells break down glucose using oxygen to make energy (ATP), and carbon dioxide is produced in the process and released from the organism as it breathes out. Photosynthesis does the opposite by using carbon dioxide to make sugars, so it removes CO2 from the air rather than releasing it. Transpiration is about water vapor leaving plant leaves, not carbon dioxide. Decomposition also releases CO2 when microbes break down dead matter, but the direct CO2 released by living metabolism is best explained by respiration.

Respiration is the process that releases carbon dioxide as a waste product of cellular energy production. In cellular respiration, cells break down glucose using oxygen to make energy (ATP), and carbon dioxide is produced in the process and released from the organism as it breathes out. Photosynthesis does the opposite by using carbon dioxide to make sugars, so it removes CO2 from the air rather than releasing it. Transpiration is about water vapor leaving plant leaves, not carbon dioxide. Decomposition also releases CO2 when microbes break down dead matter, but the direct CO2 released by living metabolism is best explained by respiration.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy