What is the role of oxygen in photosynthesis and in cellular respiration
In photosynthesis, oxygen acts as a waste product. It is produced during the light-dependent reactions when water molecules are split, releasing oxygen gas (O2). This oxygen is then released into the atmosphere or used by other organisms for respiration.
In cellular respiration, oxygen plays a crucial role as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain. During the process of aerobic respiration, glucose molecules are broken down to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and carbon dioxide. The electrons generated during this process are transferred through a series of protein complexes in the electron transport chain. Finally, these electrons combine with oxygen in the presence of hydrogen ions to form water (H2O). This oxygen consumption generates energy in the form of ATP, which is then used by the cell for various cellular activities.