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Multiple Choice
During photosynthesis in green plants, how do the levels of oxygen ($O_2$) and carbon dioxide ($CO_2$) change over time in a closed environment exposed to light?
A
$O_2$ increases, $CO_2$ decreases
B
Both $O_2$ and $CO_2$ increase
C
$O_2$ decreases, $CO_2$ increases
D
Both $O_2$ and $CO_2$ decrease
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the process of photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use light energy to convert carbon dioxide ($CO_2$) and water ($H_2O$) into glucose ($C_6H_{12}O_6$) and oxygen ($O_2$). The general equation for photosynthesis is: . This reaction occurs in the presence of light and chlorophyll.
Step 2: Analyze the role of $CO_2$ in photosynthesis. Carbon dioxide ($CO_2$) is a reactant in the photosynthesis process. Plants absorb $CO_2$ from their surroundings to produce glucose. In a closed environment exposed to light, the $CO_2$ levels will decrease over time as it is consumed during photosynthesis.
Step 3: Examine the role of $O_2$ in photosynthesis. Oxygen ($O_2$) is a byproduct of photosynthesis. As plants convert $CO_2$ and $H_2O$ into glucose, $O_2$ is released into the environment. In a closed environment exposed to light, the $O_2$ levels will increase over time as it is produced during photosynthesis.
Step 4: Consider the conditions of a closed environment exposed to light. In this scenario, photosynthesis will proceed as long as light is available, leading to a continuous decrease in $CO_2$ levels and an increase in $O_2$ levels.
Step 5: Match the observations to the correct answer. Based on the analysis, the correct answer is: '$O_2$ increases, $CO_2$ decreases'. This aligns with the expected changes in gas levels during photosynthesis in a closed environment exposed to light.