The following processes release carbondioxide into the atmosphere EXCEPT

Analyze the question: We need the one process that does NOT release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Concept: The carbon cycle has processes that add CO₂ to the air and processes that remove it.

• Add CO₂ (sources): respiration, combustion, decay/decomposition, and putrefaction.
• Remove CO₂ (sinks): photosynthesis, and dissolving in oceans.

Checking each option:

• A. Combustion: Burning fuels, wood or coal gives off CO₂. It releases CO₂.
• B. Decomposition: Bacteria and fungi break down dead organisms and release CO₂. It releases CO₂.
• C. Putrefaction: This is the decay of proteins by anaerobic bacteria. It is a form of decomposition and also releases CO₂, along with gases like ammonia and hydrogen sulfide.
• D. Respiration: Cells break down glucose to give energy, CO₂ and water. It releases CO₂.
• E. Transpiration: This is the loss of water vapour from plants, mainly through the stomata. It releases water vapour, not CO₂.

Answer: E. Transpiration is the only process listed that does not release CO₂.

Tip: Do not mix up gas exchange with water loss. Transpiration is about Transpiration = Tap water out (water vapour). Respiration, combustion and decay are the ones that "breathe out" CO₂.