Why do scientists think there is an undiscovered carbon sink somewhere?

Question

Chemistry

Huber

1 February, 04:40

Why do scientists think there is an undiscovered carbon sink somewhere?

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Answers (2)

Know the Answer?

Ben Ruiz · Answer 1

When scientists calculate how much carbon dioxide is release and how much is returned to atmosphere and oceans, a large amount is unaccounted for.

Finn Ortega · Answer 2

The major carbon sources (reservoirs that release more carbon than absorbed) are: deforestation and fossil fuels

The major carbon sinks (reservoirs that absorb more carbon than released) are:

soil, oceans and plants.

When scientists calculate the amount of carbon dioxide is returned to the atmosphere vs the released the amount of carbon, a large amount is unaccounted for and the total does not add up. This is why scientists believe there is an undiscovered carbon sink somewhere.