Question

Which step is not involved in the carbon cycle?

• A. Photosynthesis
• B. Transpiration
• C. Respiration
• D. Burning of fossil fuels

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Transpiration

The correct option is B.

Explanation of correct option:

1. The carbon cycle illustrates how carbon is transported throughout the ecosystem as it is utilized and recycled by organisms.
2. Transpiration largely serves to exchange gases and discharge water vapor into the atmosphere; it thus has no direct impact on the carbon cycle.
3. Water vapor is lost via the process of transpiration through a plant's stomata which provides a cooling effect to plants.

Explanation of incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Methane and carbon dioxide are the two most prevalent carbon compounds in the atmosphere.
2. Carbon dioxide is consumed from the atmosphere during the process of photosynthesis.

Option C:

1. When an organism breathes, carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere as a byproduct of respiration.
2. So, the carbon cycle includes both photosynthesis and respiration as essential processes.

Option D:

1. Burning fossil fuels produces smoke and chemicals like carbon dioxide and monoxide, which increases the amount of carbon in the atmosphere.
2. Thus, the carbon cycle includes the burning of fossil fuels.

Final answer: Transpiration is not involved in the carbon cycle whereas photosynthesis, burning fossil fuels, and respiration play a role in the carbon cycle.