When oxygen is released as a result of photosynthesis, from which molecule does it originate?

• A. Chlorophyll
• B. Water (H\(_2\)O)
• C. Glucose (C\(_6\)H\(_{12}\)O\(_6\))
• D. Carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\))

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, producing oxygen as a byproduct.
2. Recall the overall chemical equation for photosynthesis: 6CO\(_2\) + 6H\(_2\)O + light energy → C\(_6\)H\(_{12}\)O\(_6\) + 6O\(_2\). This shows that water (H\(_2\)O) is involved in the reaction.
3. Focus on the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, which occur in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts. During these reactions, water molecules are split in a process called photolysis.
4. Understand that photolysis involves the splitting of water (H\(_2\)O) molecules into oxygen (O\(_2\)), protons (H\(^+\)), and electrons. The oxygen released during photosynthesis originates from this splitting of water.
5. Conclude that the oxygen released as a result of photosynthesis comes specifically from the water (H\(_2\)O) molecules, not from chlorophyll, glucose, or carbon dioxide.