Chapter 27: Problem 14

How might an increase in the net ecosystem productivity of terrestrial ecosystems under climate warming influence the atmospheric concentrations of \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) (carbon dioxide)?

Short Answer

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Answer: An increase in net ecosystem productivity due to climate warming may lead to a decrease in atmospheric CO₂ concentrations, as terrestrial ecosystems absorb and store more carbon. However, the net impact on CO₂ levels will depend on other factors such as the balance between photosynthesis and respiration caused by warming, human-induced emissions, and the interactions between the atmosphere and other carbon reservoirs.

Step by step solution

Understand net ecosystem productivity (NEP)

Net ecosystem productivity (NEP) is the balance between the amount of carbon fixed through photosynthesis (Gross Primary Productivity or GPP) and the amount of carbon released through respiration and decomposition by plants, animals, and microorganisms (Ecosystem Respiration or ER). Mathematically, NEP can be calculated by the difference between GPP and ER: NEP = GPP - ER.

Explain the impact of climate warming on net ecosystem productivity

The relationship between climate warming and net ecosystem productivity is complex. Climate warming can influence both GPP and ER in terrestrial ecosystems but the effect may depend on the specific ecosystem type and conditions. Generally, warming can enhance photosynthesis and plant growth (thus increasing GPP), but it can also increase respiration rates and therefore, ER. The net impact on NEP will depend on which of these two processes is more affected by the warming.

Understand the carbon cycle and how it influences atmospheric CO₂ concentration

To comprehend how an increase in NEP might influence atmospheric CO₂ concentration, we need to look into the carbon cycle. The carbon cycle consists of the exchange of carbon among the atmosphere, terrestrial ecosystems, oceans, and geological reservoirs. CO₂ is the most prevalent form of carbon in the atmosphere, and it can be taken up by terrestrial ecosystems through photosynthesis or released by respiration and decomposition processes. The balance between these processes determines the effect on atmospheric CO₂ concentration.

Investigate how an increase in NEP influences atmospheric CO₂ concentration

An increased NEP implies that the ecosystems are, overall, sequestering more carbon than they are releasing. In other words, photosynthesis is outpacing respiration and decomposition processes, leading to a net uptake of carbon by the terrestrial ecosystems. As a consequence, the overall amount of CO₂ in the atmosphere would be expected to decrease because more CO₂ is being absorbed and converted into organic matter by the plants. However, it is essential to note that other factors can also affect atmospheric CO₂ concentration, including emission from human activities and exchange between the atmosphere and oceans, which may reduce or offset the impact of increased NEP due to climate warming.

Summarize the role of increased NEP in influencing atmospheric CO₂ concentration

In conclusion, an increase in the net ecosystem productivity under climate warming may lead to a decrease in atmospheric CO₂ concentrations, as terrestrial ecosystems absorb and store more carbon. However, the net impact on CO₂ levels will also depend on other factors, such as the balance between photosynthesis and respiration caused by warming, human-induced emissions, and the interactions between the atmosphere and other carbon reservoirs.

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How might an increase in the net ecosystem productivity of terrestrial ecosystems under climate warming influence the atmospheric concentrations of \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) (carbon dioxide)?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand net ecosystem productivity (NEP)

Explain the impact of climate warming on net ecosystem productivity

Understand the carbon cycle and how it influences atmospheric CO₂ concentration

Investigate how an increase in NEP influences atmospheric CO₂ concentration

Summarize the role of increased NEP in influencing atmospheric CO₂ concentration

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