WATER ....which splits down to release molecular oxygen during photosynthesis.

Raw Material Responsible for Release of Molecular Oxygen in Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of carbon dioxide and water. During this process, oxygen is released as a by-product. The raw material responsible for the release of molecular oxygen in photosynthesis is:

Water

Water is the primary raw material responsible for the release of molecular oxygen in photosynthesis. The oxygen atoms that are released in the form of molecular oxygen during photosynthesis come from water molecules.

Process of Oxygen Release During Photosynthesis

The process of oxygen release during photosynthesis involves two main reactions:

1. Light-dependent reaction: This reaction takes place in the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplasts. During this reaction, light energy is absorbed by the chlorophyll molecules present in the thylakoid membranes. The absorbed light energy is then used to split water molecules into hydrogen ions (H+) and oxygen atoms (O). The oxygen atoms then combine to form molecular oxygen (O2).

2. Light-independent reaction: This reaction takes place in the stroma of the chloroplasts. During this reaction, the hydrogen ions (H+) produced during the light-dependent reaction combine with carbon dioxide (CO2) to produce glucose (C6H12O6).

Significance of Oxygen Release During Photosynthesis

The release of molecular oxygen during photosynthesis is significant for several reasons:

1. It is essential for the survival of aerobic organisms, including humans, who breathe in oxygen to produce energy.

2. It helps to maintain the balance of gases in the atmosphere.

3. It plays a crucial role in the carbon cycle, as the oxygen released during photosynthesis is used by other organisms during respiration to release carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

In conclusion, water is the primary raw material responsible for the release of molecular oxygen in photosynthesis. During the light-dependent reaction of photosynthesis, water molecules are split into hydrogen ions and oxygen atoms, which combine to form molecular oxygen. The release of oxygen during photosynthesis is significant for maintaining the balance of gases in the atmosphere, the survival of aerobic organisms, and the carbon cycle.