Which of the following was a major source of atmospheric oxygen?

a Outgassing
b Photosynthesis
c Decomposition of water
d Volcanic eruptions

1 answer

The correct answer is b. Photosynthesis.

Photosynthesis, primarily carried out by plants, algae, and certain bacteria, is the process that produces oxygen as a byproduct while converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose using sunlight. This process has been a major source of atmospheric oxygen, especially since the Great Oxidation Event around 2.4 billion years ago.