A new study finds tiny plastic particles in the ocean can release carbon that looks the same as carbon from natural organic matter. When researchers burn samples, the carbon from microplastics can appear like carbon from living or once-living material. The finding appears in PLOS One.
Scientists used common analytical tools to measure carbon in water and sediment. The study says microfibers from clothing and plastic from sampling tools can enter samples without being seen. Microplastics are widespread and reach the sea through rivers, wastewater, or runoff. The authors warn that plastic carbon may change long-term measurements and that methods should be reviewed.
Difficult words
- microplastic — very small pieces of plastic in the environmentmicroplastics
- microfiber — very thin threads from clothes or fabricsmicrofibers
- organic — coming from living or once-living things
- sediment — material like sand or mud at bottom
- analytical — used to study or measure materials
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever seen plastic microfibers on a beach or in water?
- Why do the authors say methods should be reviewed?
- How could microplastics reach the rivers near your home?
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