Which of the following processes takes carbon out of the short-term carbon cycle?
A - Decomposition of dead organic matter
B - Formation of calcium carbonate by corals
C - Photosynthesis
D - Formation of wood in trees
E - Cellular respiration
Answer: B - Formation of calcium carbonate by corals
CORAL REEFS take the most carbon out because the formation of calcium carbonate exoskeletons doesn't release carbon but solidifies it.Plants take atmospheric carbon dioxide, low in potential energy, and converts it to a high energy-containing carbohydrate using photosynthesis. Cellular respiration uses oxygen to convert organic molecules to carbon dioxide and water to provide energy to cells.