Scientists are looking to determine the primary productivity of a lake by analyzing its oxygen net primary productivity. How are scientists able to measure how much oxygen is used during a plant's cellular respiration processes?

Question

A. by observing cellular respiration under the absence of light
B. by observing cellular respiration under right light conditions
C. by observing cellular respiration by studying biomagnification
D. by observing cellular respiration only when photosynthesis occurs

Answer 1

A. by observing cellular respiration under the absence of light

In this method, scientists can measure the amount of oxygen consumed by the process of cellular respiration without the interference of photosynthesis, which occurs when light is present and produces oxygen. This allows for a clearer understanding of how much oxygen is used specifically for respiration by aquatic plants and organisms.