The researchers studied how environmental factors affect soil microbial respiration and its temperature sensitivity over different time scales. They measured soil respiration rates in China from 2008 to 2013 and found that soil temperature influenced daily rates, while soil moisture affected both daily and seasonal rates. Seasonal respiration was higher in the rainy season, correlating with higher temperatures and moisture levels. A model combining temperature and moisture explained more variability in respiration rates than either factor alone. Annual respiration and temperature sensitivity decreased with increasing soil moisture. Overall, soil microbial respiration varied with temperature and moisture levels, impacting the region's climate potential.