Question 1
There is evidence that prokaryotes were responsible for changes in the atmospheric gases 3.5 billion years ago. Outline the role of bacteria in producing an oxygen-rich atmosphere.
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There is evidence that prokaryotes were responsible for changes in the atmospheric gases 3.5 billion years ago. Outline the role of bacteria in producing an oxygen-rich atmosphere.
early prokaryotes were anaerobic/did not require oxygen
population increased / shortage of food
photosynthetic bacteria/cyanobacteria evolved
produced/released oxygen (into the atmosphere)
by splitting water molecules/photolysis/photosynthesis
concentration of oxygen built up over time / conditions changed from reducing to oxidizing