Which process in the carbon cycle involves the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere?

The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere is primarily associated with the combustion process. During combustion, carbon-containing materials, such as fossil fuels or biomass, are burned, which results in the transformation of carbon stored in these materials into carbon dioxide gas. This gas is then released into the atmosphere, contributing to the carbon cycle.

In the carbon cycle, combustion plays a significant role, especially in the context of human activities, where the burning of fossil fuels for energy contributes to increased levels of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas linked to climate change. This process contrasts with others in the carbon cycle, such as photosynthesis and respiration, which involve the uptake and usage of carbon dioxide rather than its release.