The delicate balance of CO$$_2$$ and O$$_2$$ is NOT disturbed by

We need to identify which process does NOT disturb the delicate balance of $$CO_2$$ and $$O_2$$ in the atmosphere.

Understanding the $$CO_2$$-$$O_2$$ balance: In nature, there is a natural cycle that maintains the balance between $$CO_2$$ and $$O_2$$:

- Photosynthesis (by plants): $$6CO_2 + 6H_2O \xrightarrow{sunlight} C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2$$ (consumes $$CO_2$$, produces $$O_2$$)

- Respiration (by all living organisms): $$C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O$$ (consumes $$O_2$$, produces $$CO_2$$)

These two processes are complementary and have been occurring for millions of years, maintaining a natural equilibrium.

Analyzing each option:

Option 1: Respiration - Respiration is a natural biological process that is part of the natural carbon cycle. The $$CO_2$$ produced by respiration is consumed by photosynthesis, and the $$O_2$$ consumed by respiration is produced by photosynthesis. This natural cycle does NOT disturb the $$CO_2/O_2$$ balance.

Option 2: Burning of coal - Burning coal is combustion of fossil fuels, which releases large amounts of $$CO_2$$ that were stored underground for millions of years. This adds excess $$CO_2$$ to the atmosphere without a corresponding increase in photosynthesis, thereby disturbing the balance.

Option 3: Deforestation - Cutting down forests reduces the number of trees performing photosynthesis, which means less $$CO_2$$ is absorbed and less $$O_2$$ is produced. This disturbs the balance by shifting it toward higher $$CO_2$$ and lower $$O_2$$.

Option 4: Burning of petroleum - Like coal, burning petroleum releases stored carbon as $$CO_2$$, adding excess $$CO_2$$ to the atmosphere and disturbing the balance.

The correct answer is Option 1: Respiration does NOT disturb the $$CO_2/O_2$$ balance.