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NEST2026BiologyEcosystem

There is a difference between the predicted and observed global carbon budget. The possible reason is:

Options

  1. AHigher CO ₂ levels stimulate plant growth and productivity, leading to more carbon being sequestered in plant
  2. BThe thinning of the stratospheric ozone layer allows higher levels of ultraviolet radiation directly breaking
  3. COceans are absorbing more carbon due to increased temperature, resulting in increased acidification.
  4. DHigher CO ₂ levels lead to increased soil respiration rates, releasing more carbon into the atmosphere.

Correct answer

A. Higher CO ₂ levels stimulate plant growth and productivity, leading to more carbon being sequestered in plant

Step-by-step solution

The difference between the predicted and observed global carbon budget is often referred to as the missing carbon sink. This discrepancy arises because the amount of carbon dioxide accumulating in the atmosphere is less than expected based on human emissions and known ocean uptake. A primary explanation for this missing sink is the CO ₂ fertilization effect. Higher atmospheric CO ₂ concentrations stimulate photosynthesis, leading to enhanced plant growth and productivity. Consequently, more carbon is sequestered in

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