Higher levels of CO2 are more likely to be found where on the Earth? a. At the north pole b. Around the equator c. At the south pole d. Uniformly around the globe as winds blow

Answer: b. Around the equator Explanation: The equator is characterized by warm and moist conditions, which enhances biological activity and plant growth. Plants remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, and therefore, forests and other vegetation act as carbon sinks that reduce the amount of CO2 in the air. However, when deforestation or burning of fossil fuels occur in equatorial regions, the amount of CO2 released into the atmosphere exceeds the capacity of the plants to absorb it, leading to higher concentrations of CO2 in the air. This phenomenon is known as the "equatorial CO2 dome". Additionally, strong upwelling currents in the Pacific Ocean cause CO2-rich water to rise to the surface, further increasing the levels of CO2 around the equator.