The ocean plays a crucial role in producing oxygen for the planet. About 50% to 70% of the Earth’s oxygen is generated by marine organisms, primarily phytoplankton. Phytoplankton are microscopic plants and algae that float near the surface of the ocean and perform photosynthesis, just like land-based plants.
Here’s how it works:
1. **Photosynthesis**: Phytoplankton use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce oxygen and glucose. The oxygen they produce is released into the atmosphere, contributing significantly to the Earth’s oxygen supply.
2. **Scale**: Although individual phytoplankton are tiny, their vast numbers and widespread distribution in the ocean make their collective oxygen production immense. They form the foundation of the marine food web, supporting a wide range of marine life.
3. **Oxygen Cycle**: The oxygen produced by phytoplankton is part of the global oxygen cycle, which also includes land plants. This cycle maintains the balance of oxygen in the atmosphere, essential for the survival of most life forms on Earth.
In summary, the ocean, through its phytoplankton, is a major source of the oxygen we breathe, playing a vital role in maintaining the planet’s habitability.
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