Astronomy quiz question: carbon dioxide source

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 the main source of carbon dioxide (CO_2) molecules in the Earth's atmosphere?
(A) Plant growth.
(B) Comets.
(C) Global warming produced by modern industry.
(D) Volcanos.
(E) Tectonic plate motion.

Correct answer: (D).

Volcanos are the main source of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Modern industry manages to take the carbon dioxide that was sequestered from the atmosphere by plants, and recycle it back into the atmosphere. Ultimately, oceans absorb and convert atmosphere carbon dioxide into sedimentary rock, which is then subducted into the mantle by tectonic plate motion.

Student responses
Section 5166
(A) : 9 students
(B) : 0 students
(C) : 11 students
(D) : 29 students
(E) : 7 students

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