Oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis

What organisms perform photosynthesis

Plants
Algae

Some bacteria

Primary goal of photosynthesis

To produce glucose for energy storage

By product of photosynthesis

Oxygen

Where does oxygen produced during photosynthesis come from

splitting of water molecules

Photolysis

process of using light energy to split water molecules into oxygen, protons and electrons

How are electrons from photolysis used in photosynthesis

They are used in the formation of ATP and NADPH which are used in the calvin cycle

What role do protons play in photosynthesis

contribute to the creation of a proton gradient which is important for ATP production

Why is oxygen considered a by product of photosynthesis

Oxygen is a secondary product released when water is split to provide electrons and hydrogen ions for the process

What happens to the oxygen produced during photosynthesis

It’s released as a byproduct into the atmosphere

What is the overall equation for photosynthesis

Carbon Dioxide + Water —> Glucose + Oxygen

Why os oxygen essential for life on Earth

Oxygen supports the respiration of most living organisms

What is the relationship between photosynthesis and the oxygen we breathe?

Oxygen is a by-product of photosynthesis, which powers nearly all life on Earth.

3 products of photolysis

Electrons, protons, and oxygen

What are ATP and NADPH used for in photosynthesis

They are used in the Calvin cycle

What is the role of water during photosynthesis

Water is split to provide electrons and hydrogen ions and to produce oxygen as a byproduct