How did photosynthesis affect atmospheric oxygen?

Photosynthesis increased the level of atmospheric oxygen by converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Photosynthesis is a process carried out by green plants, algae, and certain bacteria. These organisms contain a pigment called chlorophyll which allows them to absorb sunlight and use its energy to synthesise food from carbon dioxide and water. This process is known as photosynthesis and it has a significant impact on the level of atmospheric oxygen.

The chemical equation for photosynthesis is 6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2. This means that for every six molecules of carbon dioxide and six molecules of water that are consumed, one molecule of glucose and six molecules of oxygen are produced. The glucose is used by the plant for growth and energy, while the oxygen is released into the atmosphere.

Before photosynthetic organisms evolved, the Earth's atmosphere had very little oxygen. However, as these organisms began to proliferate, they started to convert large amounts of carbon dioxide into oxygen. This dramatically increased the level of atmospheric oxygen, leading to the development of an oxygen-rich atmosphere. This change allowed for the evolution of aerobic organisms, which use oxygen to produce energy.

In addition to increasing the level of atmospheric oxygen, photosynthesis also plays a crucial role in maintaining its balance. This is because the process of respiration, which is carried out by all living organisms, uses oxygen and produces carbon dioxide. Without photosynthesis, the level of atmospheric oxygen would gradually decrease, while the level of carbon dioxide would increase. Therefore, photosynthesis not only contributed to the creation of our oxygen-rich atmosphere, but also continues to maintain it.

In conclusion, photosynthesis has a profound impact on the level of atmospheric oxygen. It not only increased the level of oxygen in the atmosphere, but also helps to maintain its balance.