Based on the passage, what is one reason that the carbon cycle important? (A) It adds carbon into the atmosphere whenever the level begins to drop too low. (B) It helps maintain a level of carbon in the atmosphere that is neither too hot nor too cold. C It removes carbon from the atmosphere whenever the level begins to become too high. D It releases carbon into space, preventing it from building up in Earth's atmosphere.

The correct answer is: **C. It removes carbon from the atmosphere whenever the level begins to become too high.** **Explanation:** The carbon cycle plays a crucial role in regulating the amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmosphere. When CO₂ levels become too high, processes such as photosynthesis, where plants convert CO₂ into oxygen and glucose, and the absorption of carbon by oceans help remove excess carbon from the atmosphere. This balance helps mitigate the greenhouse effect and maintain Earth's climate stability. Options **A** and **D** are incorrect because the carbon cycle does not release carbon into space or add it to the atmosphere solely based on its levels. Option **B** is misleading since the carbon cycle primarily regulates carbon levels rather than directly maintaining temperature balances.