COSEE Ocean Systems: News
Science study: Sunlight, not microbes, key to CO2 in Arctic
Description: The vast reservoir of carbon stored in Arctic permafrost is gradually being converted to carbon dioxide (CO2) after entering the freshwater system in a process thought to be controlled largely by microbial activity. However, a new study concludes that sunlight and not bacteria is the key to triggering the production of CO2 from material released by Arctic soils. The finding is particularly important, scientists say, because climate change could affect when and how permafrost is thawed, which begins the process of converting the organic carbon into CO2. [Source: Oregon State University]
URL: http://oregonstate.edu/ua/ncs/archives/2014/aug/science-study-sunlight-not-microbes-key-co2-arctic
Availability: Full Text
Source: Oregon State University
Publish Date: 8/21/2014
Reading Level: Basic
Page Length:  

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