How does deforestation affect carbon dioxide levels?

Deforestation plays a significant role in carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, primarily through its impact on carbon absorption. Trees and forests act as critical carbon sinks; they absorb carbon dioxide during the process of photosynthesis, using it to grow and produce energy. When trees are cut down or burned, not only is this carbon absorption diminished, but the carbon that was stored in the trees is released back into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide, thereby increasing overall levels of this greenhouse gas.

Choosing the option that highlights the decrease in carbon dioxide absorption accurately reflects the consequence of deforestation. With fewer trees, there is less biomass available to take in carbon dioxide, which exacerbates the greenhouse effect and contributes to climate change. Hence, the statement correctly illustrates the ecological impact of deforestation on carbon dioxide levels.