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Multiple Choice
Why was the development of photosynthesis so important to the evolution of life on Earth?
A
It led to the formation of the ozone layer, which protected life from harmful UV radiation.
B
It facilitated the development of multicellular organisms by increasing the availability of nitrogen.
C
It allowed for the conversion of solar energy into chemical energy, providing a sustainable energy source for living organisms.
D
It enabled the synthesis of complex carbohydrates, which are essential for DNA replication.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Photosynthesis is a process used by plants, algae, and some bacteria to convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy stored in glucose, a type of sugar.
The development of photosynthesis was crucial because it allowed organisms to harness solar energy and convert it into a form that could be used to fuel various biological processes.
This process involves the absorption of light by chlorophyll, a green pigment in the chloroplasts of plant cells, which then uses this energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.
The oxygen produced as a byproduct of photosynthesis was released into the atmosphere, leading to the development of an oxygen-rich environment, which was essential for the evolution of aerobic (oxygen-using) organisms.
The ability to convert solar energy into chemical energy provided a sustainable and abundant energy source, supporting the growth and complexity of life forms on Earth, including the development of multicellular organisms.