Why do cyanobacteria and algae take in carbon dioxide and give off oxygen?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that cyanobacteria and algae are photosynthetic organisms, meaning they use light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into organic compounds.
2. Recognize that during photosynthesis, these organisms take in carbon dioxide (CO\_2) from their environment as a carbon source to build sugars and other organic molecules.
3. Know that the process of photosynthesis involves the splitting of water molecules (H\_2O) to release oxygen (O\_2) as a byproduct.
4. Recall the general photosynthesis equation: \$6CO\_2 + 6H\_2O + light \ energy \rightarrow C\_6H\_{12}O\_6 + 6O\_2$, which shows carbon dioxide intake and oxygen release.
5. Conclude that cyanobacteria and algae take in carbon dioxide to produce energy-rich organic compounds and release oxygen as a result of water splitting during photosynthesis.

Key Concepts

Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the process by which organisms like cyanobacteria and algae convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen using sunlight. This process involves chlorophyll capturing light energy to drive chemical reactions that produce oxygen as a byproduct.

Role of Chlorophyll and Pigments

Chlorophyll and other pigments in cyanobacteria and algae absorb light energy necessary for photosynthesis. These pigments enable the organisms to harness sunlight efficiently, facilitating the conversion of CO2 into organic compounds and releasing oxygen.

Carbon Dioxide Fixation

Carbon dioxide fixation refers to the incorporation of CO2 into organic molecules during the Calvin cycle in photosynthesis. Cyanobacteria and algae use this process to build sugars that serve as energy sources, which explains their uptake of CO2 from the environment.