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Chapter 23: Problem 8

What is the role of photosynthesis and decomposition in the oxygen cycle?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Photosynthesis and decomposition play crucial roles in maintaining the oxygen cycle. Photosynthesis, carried out by plants, algae, and some bacteria, produces oxygen as a byproduct and releases it into the atmosphere, providing a vital source for living organisms to breathe. On the other hand, decomposition consumes oxygen and releases carbon dioxide while breaking down dead organisms and organic materials. The balance between these two processes ensures a stable supply of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, necessary for supporting life on Earth.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the oxygen cycle

The oxygen cycle is a continuous process that maintains the balance of oxygen in the atmosphere. It involves the constant cycling of oxygen atoms between oxygen molecules in the air and compounds containing oxygen, like water and carbon dioxide. Photosynthesis and decomposition play crucial roles in this cycle, as they promote the exchange of oxygen between different molecules and ensure a balanced supply of oxygen for living organisms.
02

Role of photosynthesis

Photosynthesis plays a significant role in the oxygen cycle because it is responsible for the production of oxygen in the atmosphere. During photosynthesis, plants, algae, and some bacteria absorb sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to produce glucose (a form of sugar) and oxygen as a byproduct. The oxygen produced by photosynthesis is then released into the atmosphere, providing a vital source of oxygen for animals and other organisms to breathe.
03

Formula of photosynthesis

The general formula for photosynthesis can be written as: 6 CO_2 + 6 H_2O + light energy \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6 O_2 In this equation, carbon dioxide (CO_2) and water (H_2O) are combined in the presence of light energy to produce glucose (C_6H_{12}O_6) and oxygen gas (O_2), which is released into the atmosphere.
04

Role of decomposition

Decomposition plays an equally essential role in the oxygen cycle, as it is responsible for replenishing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere to be used in photosynthesis. Decomposition is the process where dead organisms and organic materials break down, primarily by the action of fungi and bacteria. During this process, oxygen is consumed from the atmosphere, while carbon dioxide, along with other nutrients, is released back into the environment.
05

Balance in the oxygen cycle

The balance between photosynthesis and decomposition is crucial for maintaining a stable supply of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Through photosynthesis, plants produce oxygen, which is essential for the survival of many living organisms. At the same time, decomposition ensures that there is a sufficient supply of carbon dioxide for the photosynthetic process to continue. This balance in the oxygen cycle ensures that all living organisms can obtain the necessary resources for their survival and that the atmosphere remains stable to support life on Earth.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

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