What occurs when trees take up CO2 in the atmosphere and "store" it in the form of wood and other carbon-based tissues?

When trees absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, they engage in a process called carbon sequestration. This process is essential for the global carbon cycle and helps mitigate climate change. During carbon sequestration, trees utilize CO2 in photosynthesis to produce glucose and other carbohydrates, which are essential for growth. The carbon from CO2 is then incorporated into various components of the tree, such as wood, bark, and leaves, effectively "storing" it in a stable form.

This stored carbon becomes part of the tree's biomass and can remain there for long periods, which is why forests play a crucial role in reducing atmospheric CO2 levels. By sequestering carbon, trees help to offset greenhouse gas emissions, making them vital for environmental health and climate stability.

The other processes listed do not accurately capture this dynamic. While photosynthesis is related to how trees take in CO2 and convert it into organic matter, carbon sequestration specifically describes the long-term storage of CO2 in plant tissues. Respiration is the process where trees convert glucose back into energy, releasing CO2 in the process, which is the opposite of carbon sequestration. Evapotranspiration involves the movement of water from the soil and plants into the atmosphere and does