
What natural geochemical process converts atmospheric CO2 into bicarbonate ions that can be transported to oceans and ultimately stored as carbonate sediments?
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Get StartedWhat natural geochemical process converts atmospheric CO2 into bicarbonate ions that can be transported to oceans and ultimately stored as carbonate sediments?
Options:
- Photosynthetic carbon fixation
- Oxidation of methane hydrates
- Silicate (chemical) weathering
- Volcanic degassing
Correct answer: Silicate (chemical) weathering
Explanation: Silicate weathering is a CO2-consuming chemical reaction where CO2 and water react with silicate minerals to form bicarbonate; this mechanism helps sequester CO2 on geological timescales and is temperature- and runoff-dependent.
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