Which statement best describes the change in Earth's atmospheric oxygen content as the planet evolved over time?
A
Oxygen was the dominant atmospheric gas before any life appeared.
B
Oxygen levels have always been high since Earth's formation.
C
Oxygen levels increased significantly after the evolution of photosynthetic organisms.
D
Oxygen content steadily decreased as life evolved.
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검증된 단계별 안내
1
Understand the context of Earth's atmospheric evolution: Early Earth had a reducing atmosphere with very little oxygen, primarily composed of gases like methane, ammonia, and carbon dioxide.
Recognize the role of photosynthetic organisms: Cyanobacteria, which evolved around 2.5 billion years ago, were the first organisms to perform oxygenic photosynthesis, releasing oxygen as a byproduct.
Explain the Great Oxygenation Event: The oxygen produced by cyanobacteria began accumulating in the atmosphere, leading to a significant increase in oxygen levels approximately 2.4 billion years ago.
Discuss the impact of increased oxygen levels: Higher oxygen levels allowed for the evolution of aerobic organisms and more complex life forms, fundamentally changing Earth's biosphere.
Conclude by identifying the correct statement: The statement 'Oxygen levels increased significantly after the evolution of photosynthetic organisms' best describes the change in Earth's atmospheric oxygen content over time.