UPSC Current Affairs
Dark Oxygen
describe molecular oxygen (O2 ) produced in the depths of oceans, where sunlight cannot penetrate. This is in contrast to the oxygen produced at the ocean's surface through photosynthesis. (in presence of light) HOW IS IT PRODUCED?
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describe molecular oxygen (O2 ) produced in the depths of oceans, where sunlight cannot penetrate. This is in contrast to the oxygen produced at the ocean's surface through photosynthesis. (in presence of light) HOW IS IT PRODUCED?
describe molecular oxygen (O2 ) produced in the depths of oceans, where sunlight cannot penetrate.
This is
in contrast to the oxygen produced at the ocean's surface through photosynthesis. (in presence of light)
HOW IS IT PRODUCED?
Scientists believe that
polymetallic nodules, which are
lumps of iron, manganese hydroxides, and rock found on the ocean floor, might be responsible for producing dark oxygen.
HOW CAN POLYMETALLIC NODULES PRODUCE OXYGEN?
These nodules seem to have the
ability to transport electric charges that
split water molecules,(H2O) releasing oxygen in a process
similar to electrolysis.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE DISCOVERY
The discovery of dark oxygen is a groundbreaking finding as:
- It challenges our previous understanding of oxygen production on Earth.
- It opens up new avenues for research into the oxygen cycle.
- The potential for life in extreme environments, and
- The possibility of finding oxygen on other planets.
- Prelims: Key facts, institutions, locations and terminology in the article.
- Mains: Connect the topic with UPSC Current Affairs.
- Revision: Use the article headings to prepare concise notes and answer-writing points.
Test your understanding
Questions from this article
Prelims practiceWith reference to Dark Oxygen, consider the following statements:
- It challenges our previous understanding of oxygen production on Earth.
- It opens up new avenues for research into the oxygen cycle.
- The potential for life in extreme environments, and
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
View answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3. All three statements are drawn from the article.
Mains practiceDiscuss the background, key issues and significance of Dark Oxygen for India.
Answer in 250 words.
View answer approach
- Background and context
- Key facts and institutional framework
- Significance and way forward
Frequently asked questionsFrequently asked questions
Why is Dark Oxygen in the news?
describe molecular oxygen (O2 ) produced in the depths of oceans, where sunlight cannot penetrate. This is in contrast to the oxygen produced at the ocean's surface through photosynthesis.
What are the key facts about Dark Oxygen?
(in presence of light) HOW IS IT PRODUCED? Scientists believe that polymetallic nodules, which are lumps of iron, manganese hydroxides, and rock found on the ocean floor, might be responsible for producing dark oxygen. HOW CAN POLYMETALLIC NODULES PRODUCE OXYGEN?
Why is Dark Oxygen important for UPSC preparation?
The topic connects current developments with UPSC Current Affairs and is relevant for both objective revision and analytical answer writing.