In the Northern Hemisphere, climate scientists observe seasonal changes in carbon dioxide concentration with the highest levels measured in May and the lowest levels measured in October. Hypothesize how photosynthesis can affect these changes. Explain your answer in three to
four sentences.
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants and algae convert carbon dioxide into organic compounds and release oxygen as a byproduct. During the spring and summer months, when photosynthesis rates are high, plants are actively absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, resulting in lower concentrations. As a result, the highest levels of carbon dioxide are observed in May, before plants reach peak photosynthesis. In the fall, as plants start to go dormant and photosynthesis rates decrease, less carbon dioxide is being absorbed, leading to an increase in atmospheric concentrations by October.