Asked by Morgan Lancaster on Jun 05, 2024
Verified
How did an oxygen-rich atmosphere develop from a carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere?
A) Through photosynthesis by cyanobacteria
B) Through volcanic eruptions
C) Through asteroid impacts
Cyanobacteria
Photosynthetic microorganisms found in water, sometimes referred to as "blue-green algae," important for their role in nitrogen fixation and oxygen production.
Oxygen-rich Atmosphere
An atmosphere that contains high levels of oxygen, typically associated with the development and sustenance of complex life forms on Earth.
Carbon Dioxide-rich Atmosphere
An atmosphere that contains a high concentration of carbon dioxide, affecting climate and living organisms.
- Describe the development of an oxygen-rich atmosphere.
Verified Answer
HG
Heather GreenwaltJun 07, 2024
Final Answer :
A
Explanation :
Photosynthesis by cyanobacteria played a crucial role in transforming Earth's early carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere into an oxygen-rich one. These organisms began to produce oxygen through photosynthesis over 2.4 billion years ago, leading to the Great Oxygenation Event.
Learning Objectives
- Describe the development of an oxygen-rich atmosphere.