In oxygenic photosynthesis, which substance is produced as an output of the overall process?

• A. Oxygen ($O_2$)
• B. Carbon dioxide ($C_1{O}_2$)
• C. Light energy
• D. Water ($H_{2}O$)

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that oxygenic photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and cyanobacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, producing oxygen as a byproduct.
2. Recall the overall balanced chemical equation for oxygenic photosynthesis: \$6 \text{CO}_2 + 6 \text{H}_2\text{O} + \text{light energy} \rightarrow \text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6 + 6 \text{O}_2$.
3. Identify the inputs on the left side of the equation: carbon dioxide (\(\text{CO}_2\)), water (\(\text{H}_2\text{O}\)), and light energy.
4. Recognize the outputs on the right side of the equation: glucose (\(\text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6\)) and oxygen (\(\text{O}_2\)).
5. Conclude that oxygen (\(\text{O}_2\)) is produced as an output of oxygenic photosynthesis, while carbon dioxide and water are inputs, and light energy is the energy source.