Question

Photosynthesis is the main method by which primary production takes place in an ecosystem. What abiotic factor is a beneficial by-product of primary production?

Answer 1

The significant abiotic by-product of photosynthesis is oxygen. The main product of the process is glucose, which the plant uses as food. The general equation for photosynthesis is:

6CO2 (carbon dioxide) + 6H2O (water) = C6H12O6 (glucose) + 6O2 (oxygen)

It can be seen that plants are important to sustain life because they reduce the earth's carbon dioxide, and replace it with oxygen.

Answer 2

The answer is A: Oxygen