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Chapter 17: Problem 3

Name three principal inorganic sources of oxygen atoms that are commonly available in the inanimate environment and readily accessible to the biosphere.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The three principal inorganic sources of oxygen atoms that are commonly available in the inanimate environment and accessible to the biosphere are: 1) Air 2) Water, and 3) The Earth's crust.

Step by step solution

01

Identifying the First Source

Air is a readily available source of oxygen. In the Earth's atmosphere, oxygen makes up approximately 21% of the total composition. This oxygen is continually replenished by photosynthesis, wherein green plants convert carbon dioxide into oxygen.
02

Identifying the Second Source

Water (H2O) is a significant inorganic source of oxygen. It's accessible in the biosphere from various sources like rivers, lakes, and oceans. For example, aquatic plants, through the process of photosynthesis, break down water molecules to release oxygen into the environment.
03

Identifying the Third Source

The Earth's crust, which is rich in silicate minerals, offers a vast source of oxygen. Silicate minerals make up about 90% of the Earth's crust. Weathering of these minerals releases oxygen atoms, which can be utilized by the biosphere.

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