Over evolutionary time, photosynthesis has, in effect, introduced challenges to itself by producing an oxygen atmosphere because: A)rubisco is an oxygenase. B)rubisco is a carboxylase. C)O₂ is a strong oxidant. D)rubisco is an oxygenase and O₂ is a strong oxidant. E)rubisco is an oxygenase and O₂ is a strong reductant.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rubisco is an oxygenase, meaning it can react with oxygen in addition to carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, leading to the production of a toxic compound called glycolate. This process is called photorespiration and can reduce the efficiency of photosynthesis. Additionally, the production of oxygen from photosynthesis has introduced a strong oxidant, O₂, into the atmosphere, which can lead to oxidative stress and damage to cells and tissues. Therefore, photosynthesis has introduced challenges to itself by producing an oxygen atmosphere.

Over Evolutionary Time, Photosynthesis Has, in Effect, Introduced Challenges to Itself