How does the release of carbon dioxide by microorganisms benefit plant life?
a. it reduces the acidity of water in soil, which increases water absorption and provides plants with necessary water.
b. it increases the acidity of water in soil leading to the breakdown of rocks in soil. this releases nutrients which can be used by plants.
c. it decreases the acidity of water in soil leading to the breakdown of rocks in soil. this releases nutrients which an be used by plants.
d. it increases the acidity of water in soil, which decreases water absorption providing plant life with firmer soil for root growth.

Carbon dioxide contributes to soil quality by increasing acidity. When microorganisms release carbon dioxide, the acidity of the soil increases, the water with increased acidity surrounds the rock in the soil and decomposes them, which leads to an increase in the amount of minerals in the soil. Texture and soil quality are precisely determined by the amount and distribution of minerals. The amount of minerals and nutrients contributes to the development of plants. In addition, the release of carbon dioxide also contributes to photosynthesis, which suggests the reaction of converting sunlight into the chemical form of energy needed to create its own energy source of plants. To convert sunlight into a chemical, a carbon dioxide is needed. In this process, oxygen is released, therefore the significance of plants, especially forests, is immeasurable.

The answer is: b.