What role does respiration play in the carbon cycle?

Respiration is a critical process in the carbon cycle as it involves the breakdown of organic molecules, primarily glucose, to release energy for cellular activities. During this biochemical process, living organisms – including animals, plants, and microorganisms – convert glucose and oxygen into energy, water, and carbon dioxide.

The production of carbon dioxide during respiration is essential because it returns carbon to the atmosphere after being absorbed by plants during photosynthesis. In this way, respiration helps to maintain the balance of carbon in the ecosystem, facilitating its continuous cycle between the atmosphere, living organisms, and the soil. Hence, the correct answer highlights that respiration releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere, which is a fundamental step in the larger carbon cycle.