What process helps regulate Earth's climate by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere?

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert carbon dioxide and sunlight into glucose and oxygen. This crucial biological process plays a significant role in regulating Earth's climate because it removes carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, from the atmosphere. When plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, they help reduce its concentration in the atmosphere, thus contributing to the mitigation of global warming and climate change.

During photosynthesis, the energy captured from sunlight is used to transform carbon dioxide and water into organic compounds that serve as food for the plants. Additionally, oxygen released as a byproduct of this process is essential for the survival of most living organisms.

In contrast, respiration, combustion, and decomposition contribute to the release of carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere. Respiration is the process through which living organisms break down glucose, consuming oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide. Combustion involves the burning of organic materials, which also releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Decomposition is the breakdown of organic matter by microorganisms, which can generate carbon dioxide as organic materials are metabolized.

Thus, photosynthesis stands out as the primary process that directly removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and plays a vital role in regulating the Earth's climate.