Two ways in which concentrations of CO₂ million of years ago can be reconstructed is from the density of stomata in fossilized leaves and _____

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The isotopic content of carbon in fossils can provide information about atmospheric CO2 concentrations in the past. When photosynthesis occurs, plants use carbon dioxide (CO2) as a source of carbon, and the isotopic composition of the carbon in the CO2 is reflected in the organic matter that is produced. By analyzing the ratio of carbon isotopes in fossilized plant material, scientists can estimate past atmospheric CO2 concentrations. Stomata density can also provide information about past atmospheric CO2 concentrations, but this method is more indirect and less precise than isotopic analysis.

Two Ways in Which Concentrations of CO2 Million of Years

Two Ways in Which Concentrations of CO₂ Million of Years