DMSP, a chemical produced by ocean phytoplankton and seaweed, breaks down to produce the gas dimethyl sulfide.The fact that 70 percent of Earth's surface is covered with oceans suggests that the production of dimethyl sulfide is
A) relatively unimportant to the world sulfur cycle.
B) important to the sulfur cycle, but only within the oceans.
C) important only to the biotic portion of the sulfur cycle.
D) an essential part of the world sulfur cycle.
E) important when it breaks down and is taken up by plants.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The question specifically mentions that DMSP and its breakdown product, dimethyl sulfide, are important to the "world sulfur cycle." Additionally, the fact that it is produced by phytoplankton and seaweed suggests that it is involved in the biotic portion of the cycle, as these organisms are living and part of the ecosystem. Finally, the fact that 70 percent of the Earth's surface is covered in oceans suggests that the production of dimethyl sulfide is widespread and therefore an essential part of the overall sulfur cycle.

DMSP, a Chemical Produced by Ocean Phytoplankton and Seaweed, Breaks