What role does cellular respiration play in the water cycle?
A. It removes H₂O from the atmosphere during glycolysis.
B. It removes H₂O from the atmosphere during acetyl CoA formation.
C. It releases H₂O to the atmosphere during the citric acid cycle.
D. It releases H₂O to the atmosphere during electron transport.
Answer (3)
D) It releases H2O to the atmosphere during electron transport. ;
The correct answer is option D.Cellular respiration contributes to the water cycle by releasing water as a byproduct during the electron transport stage, specifically when oxygen combines with electrons and protons to form water that is then released into the atmosphere.
The role of cellular respiration in the water cycle is closely tied to its function in energy metabolism. Specifically, the correct answer to the student's question is D) It releases H2O to the atmosphere during electron transport. During the electron transport chain, which is the final stage of cellular respiration, oxygen is used to generate water by combining with the electrons and protons at the end of the chain. Hence, water is not created in the citric acid cycle itself but rather during the electron transport phase of cellular respiration. This water can then be released into the atmosphere, contributing to the water cycle.
Both photosynthesis and cellular respiration play pivotal roles in the cycling of carbon and are integral to the maintenance of life on Earth. Water generated through cellular respiration participates in many other biochemical reactions, reinforcing the essential nature of water for life.
The correct answer is D) It releases H₂O to the atmosphere during electron transport. Cellular respiration involves stages, and during the electron transport chain, water is produced and can be released into the atmosphere, contributing to the water cycle. This process helps maintain the balance of Earth's water resources.
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