The source of the atmospheric oxygen necessary for the development of oxidative metabolism is thought to have been
A) glycolysis.
B) the formation of Earth.
C) the breakdown of ATP.
D) photosynthesis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The only process that produces atmospheric oxygen is photosynthesis, which is the process by which plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce glucose and oxygen. Glycolysis and ATP breakdown do not produce oxygen, and the formation of Earth was not directly responsible for the production of oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Source of the Atmospheric Oxygen Necessary for the Development