Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
The major biological source of dissolved oxygen in the ocean comes from:
A
respiration by marine animals
B
decomposition of organic matter
C
photosynthetic activity of phytoplankton
D
volcanic eruptions on the seafloor
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context: Dissolved oxygen in the ocean is critical for marine life and is primarily produced through biological processes. The question asks about the major biological source of this oxygen.
Recall the process of photosynthesis: Phytoplankton, which are microscopic marine organisms, perform photosynthesis. During this process, they use sunlight, carbon dioxide (CO₂), and water (H₂O) to produce glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and release oxygen (O₂) as a byproduct.
Eliminate incorrect options: Respiration by marine animals and decomposition of organic matter consume oxygen rather than produce it. Volcanic eruptions on the seafloor are geological processes and do not contribute significantly to dissolved oxygen.
Focus on the correct option: Photosynthetic activity of phytoplankton is the primary biological source of dissolved oxygen in the ocean. This is because phytoplankton are abundant and their photosynthetic activity releases large amounts of oxygen into the water.
Conclude: The correct answer is 'photosynthetic activity of phytoplankton,' as it is the major biological process responsible for producing dissolved oxygen in the ocean.