Global estimates of denitrification in terrestrial ecosystems vary widely but are of the order 200 × 1012 g/yr,and more than half of that total occurs in wetland ecosystems.If restoration results in an increase in wetland area by approximately 25 percent,it would be expected that losses of nitrogen through denitrification would be closer to

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If more than half of denitrification occurs in wetland ecosystems and restoration increases wetland area by 25 percent, then we can estimate that denitrification would also increase by 25 percent.

Thus, 25% of 200 × 1012 g/yr is 50 × 1012 g/yr.

Adding this value to the original total, we get:

200 × 1012 g/yr + 50 × 1012 g/yr = 250 × 1012 g/yr

Therefore, the expected losses of nitrogen through denitrification after restoration would be closer to 225 × 1012 g/yr, making answer choice B the best choice.

Global Estimates of Denitrification in Terrestrial Ecosystems Vary Widely but Are