With reference to the Deep Carbon Observatory (DCO), which of the following statements is/are correct?1.It is a global research programme to further understand the role of carbon on Earth.2.It conducts field observations of deep microbial ecosystems.Select the correct answer from the codes given below:

1. A

   1 only

   (a) 1 only. Statement 1 is true, but DCO also funded and coordinated deep-life field work, so 2 is not dropped.

2. B

   2 only

   (b) 2 only. Omits the programme’s stated global carbon-cycle aim.

3. C

   Both 1 and 2

   (c) Both 1 and 2. The Deep Carbon Observatory (2009–2019) was a global research programme on Earth’s carbon, including field observation of deep microbial ecosystems. (c) Official key.

4. D

   Neither 1 nor 2

   (d) Neither. Both statements match the DCO brief.

Summary. Official key is (c). DCO was a decade-long global carbon programme and it did observe deep microbial ecosystems. Neither limb is a trick negation.