What would happen if phytoplankton of an ocean is completely destroyed for some reason? 1. The ocean as a carbon sink would be adversely affected. 2. The food chains in the ocean would be adversely affected. 3. The density of ocean water would drastically decrease, Select the correct answer using the codes given below :

1. Statement 1 is correct. Phytoplankton are microscopic marine algae that perform photosynthesis, absorbing vast amounts of atmospheric carbon dioxide. They form a crucial part of the biological pump, transferring carbon to the deep ocean when they die and sink. If phytoplankton were completely destroyed, the ocean's capacity to act as a carbon sink would be significantly reduced, thus being adversely affected. 2. Statement 2 is correct. Phytoplankton are the primary producers in most marine ecosystems, forming the base of the oceanic food chains. They are consumed by zooplankton, which are then eaten by larger organisms. Their complete destruction would lead to a collapse of these food chains, adversely affected nearly all marine life. 3. Statement 3 is incorrect. The density of ocean water is primarily determined by temperature and salinity. While phytoplankton contribute to the biomass in the ocean, their total mass relative to the vast volume of ocean water is negligible. Their removal would not cause a drastic decrease in the overall density of ocean water. 4. Since statements 1 and 2 are correct consequences, option (A) is the correct answer.