What activity contributes to carbon release into the atmosphere?

Burning fossil fuels is a significant source of carbon release into the atmosphere. This process involves the combustion of carbon-rich materials such as coal, oil, and natural gas, which have been formed over millions of years. When these fuels are burned for energy, they react with oxygen, resulting in carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases being released as byproducts. This release contributes to the greenhouse effect, leading to climate change and its associated impacts on the environment.

In contrast, photosynthesis, soil stabilization, and microbial immobilization are activities that either sequester carbon or do not contribute to carbon emissions. Photosynthesis captures CO2 from the atmosphere and converts it into organic matter, while soil stabilization helps to prevent soil erosion and retain carbon in the soil. Microbial immobilization refers to the process where microbes utilize available nutrients, converting them into organic forms, which often serves to stabilize carbon in the soil as well.