Astronomy quiz question: carbon dioxide sink

Astronomy 10 Quiz 4, Spring Semester 2008
Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, CA

Astronomy 10 learning goal Q4.4

[3.0 points.] Which one of the following choices best describes what prevents too much carbon dioxide (CO_2) molecules from building up in the Earth's atmosphere?
(A) Large amounts of dry ice produced for modern industry.
(B) Global warming produced by modern industry.
(C) Tectonic plate motion.
(D) Plant growth.
(E) Volcanos.

Correct answer: (C).

Oceans absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which then settles down and is incorporated into carbonaceous sedimentary rock. This sequestered carbon then is ultimately taken back down into the mantle at subduction trenches.

Student responses
Section 4160
(A) : 0 students
(B) : 0 students
(C) : 26 students
(D) : 6 students
(E) : 9 students

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