**Gas Released During Photosynthesis in Plants: Oxygen**

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose (a form of sugar) and oxygen. This process occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, specifically in the green pigment called chlorophyll.

During photosynthesis, plants release oxygen as a byproduct, which is essential for the survival of many organisms, including humans. Let's explore why oxygen is released during photosynthesis.

**1. The Purpose of Photosynthesis:**

Photosynthesis is a vital process for plants as it provides them with the energy they need to grow, develop, and reproduce. It involves the conversion of light energy from the sun into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This energy-rich molecule is then used by plants for various metabolic processes.

**2. The Role of Chloroplasts:**

Chloroplasts are the specialized organelles within plant cells where photosynthesis takes place. These organelles contain chlorophyll, which absorbs light energy from the sun. Chlorophyll is responsible for the green color of plants.

**3. The Process of Photosynthesis:**

Photosynthesis consists of two stages: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (also known as the Calvin cycle).

- Light-dependent reactions: In this stage, light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll, which excites electrons. These energized electrons are then used to generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate), which are energy-rich molecules.

- Light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle): In this stage, ATP and NADPH produced in the light-dependent reactions are used to convert carbon dioxide into glucose. This process occurs in the stroma of chloroplasts.

**4. Oxygen as a Byproduct:**

During photosynthesis, as the light-dependent reactions occur, water molecules are split into hydrogen ions (H+) and oxygen molecules (O2). The oxygen molecules are released into the atmosphere as a byproduct of the process. This release of oxygen is crucial for the survival of aerobic organisms, including humans, as we require oxygen for respiration.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, the gas released during photosynthesis in plants is oxygen. This vital process enables plants to convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen. The oxygen released during photosynthesis plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of gases in the atmosphere and supporting the respiration of organisms.

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