Which process describes how carbon is removed from the atmosphere?

The process of photosynthesis by plants converting carbon dioxide is essential in understanding how carbon is removed from the atmosphere. During photosynthesis, plants take in carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air through small openings on their leaves called stomata. This CO2 is then used alongside sunlight and water to produce glucose and oxygen. The removal of CO2 from the atmosphere during this process helps to mitigate greenhouse gas concentrations, playing a crucial role in regulating Earth's climate.

In the context of the carbon cycle, photosynthesis is a primary mechanism for carbon capture, linking atmospheric carbon to living biomass. As plants grow, they store carbon in their tissues, effectively reducing the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere and thus contributing to a balanced ecosystem. This process is foundational for life on Earth, as it not only regulates atmospheric carbon levels but also provides the organic matter necessary for the food chain.

While the other processes mentioned also have significance in the carbon cycle, they do not primarily illustrate the direct removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere in the way that photosynthesis does.